Whether this is your first or 50th open water swim, there's always something to learn. Here's some tips for a successful swim.
* Stay calm in the mass start. Bumps of arms and legs are bound to happen. If it bothers you, move to the side of the pack or sprint ahead.
* Be sure to sight! Unlike the pool, there is no black line to ensure you swim in a straight line. Don't rely too much on those around you to swim straight. Get your goggles above the water, see the target, then turn to the side to breathe. If you couldn't see the target, site again right away.
* Turns- be sure to sight more often as you get near the turn buoys (ours are orange). If you go on the wrong side, the officials will make you turn back to avoid a DQ.
* ENJOY!! Every course is a little different every day! Staying flexible is key to swimming well in the wild waters.
The average water temperature in Lake Montclair on race day is 68-72F. If conditions are similar, this race is likely to be wetsuit legal. If you don't enjoy colder temperatures, consider buying or renting a wetsuit. Learn how to put on and take care of your wetsuit from the link below.
Arm tattoos go vertically down each arm. "Shoulder" tattoos go on your race cap for easy identification. Wetsuits cover this area. Hand tattoos go on the back of each hand.
PRO TIP- skin should be clean & free of sunscreen, oils, lotions or makeup before applying tattoos.
Starting on the beautiful sandy beach in Montclair, swimmers have a beach start. Making left hand turns at each of the respective turn buoys. The 750m race is for ages 9 and up and a single loop. The 1.5K is for ages 11 and up and a double loop of the small course. The 2.5K is for experienced swimmers that have swam the 1,000 or 1650 free in a pool or previous open water swims. It's a loop from Dolphin Beach to West Beach and back. Additionally, we have a 5K option for ages13 years and up that want to prove their endurance prowess!
In 2026 we will be offering the ultimate endurance challenge! Try the Double Dog Dare 6.5K! These races take on the 5K and the 1.5K races. Everyone that competes it will get a special award.