FAQs
— YOU'VE GOT QUESTIONS. WE'VE GOT ANSWERS
Check below for further details and insight into the 2024 Chicago River Swim event. Please check back as questions and answers will be continually added to this page, especially considering the venue change to Ohio Street Beach.
REGISTRATION
Are there any participation requirements?
Yes, there are several requirements:
- Registration Fee: There is no fee to apply. However, if selected, participants are required to pay a $50 (USD) non-refundable fee using their credit card on file
- US Masters Swimming License: Non-USMS Members must also pay a $20 (USD) non-refundable sanctioning fee upon registration
- Fundraise for ALS: Selected participants agree to fundraise a minimum of $1,500 (USD) for 2-mile swimmers or $1,000 (USD) for 1-mile swimmers to support A Long Swim
- Swim Safety: Participants must agree to wear the event-issued swim cap, timing chip and swim buoy during the swim, and abide by a forthcoming set of event rules
- Athlete Briefing: Participants must attend a mandatory safety and logistics session prior to the event; No exceptions
- Packet Pick-Up: Participants must pick-up their own race packets on event weekend, and present a government-issued photo ID
- Forward Progress: Participants must make continuous progress from start to finish without prolonged stops.
NOTE: Additional requirements may be listed prior to the application process and/or event weekend.
Where can I apply?
Apply at chicagoriverswim.org. Applications close Sunday, April 28
How can I confirm my application was submitted?
Each participant will receive a confirmation email soon after submitting their application.
How will the selection process work?
Applications will be screened and reviewed for accuracy. Qualified individuals will be grouped, drawn, and notified of their selection in early May.
*Chicago River Swim does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, or disability in participation in its programs, services, and activities*
What if I am selected, but unable to participate in September?
Those unable to participate in the 2024 Chicago River Swim can defer to the 2025 event by notifying staff by Wednesday, July 31. Deferred participants will receive guaranteed entry in the 2025 event, but must pay all relevant 2025 registration fees and fundraise the full amount. Deferrals into the 2025 event will not be available after July 31, 2024.
Can I transfer my entry to a friend?
No. Transferring entry is not allowed, as that participant will not be covered by our athlete protection insurance in the event of an injury or accident. If that participant causes damage or injury, you may be liable in part for the damages.
Can I apply for the 2025 Chicago River Swim?
The 2025 application processed will be announced following the 2024 event.
FUNDRAISING
Who is the beneficiary of the Chicago River Swim?
A Long Swim works hand in hand with the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University in Chicago. More information on our partnership can be found here
How much am I expected to raise if I am participating?
The goal of your fundraising efforts should be $1,000 to $1,500 however you are encouraged to challenge yourself as incentives and awards will be offered to top fundraisers!
How will I collect donations?
All selected participants will create a custom fundraising web page, where you are able to collect donations by credit card or check (details forthcoming).
What if I don’t know how to fundraise?
The event’s Athlete Services Coordinator will provide personalized support and tools to help everyone achieve their fundraising goals.
When do I need to complete my fundraising requirements?
The following milestones have been set for all 2024 participants:
- Milestone 1 (25% of fundraising complete): June 16
- Milestone 2 (50%): July 21
- Milestone 3 (100%): September 8
TRAINING
How much training will I need?
That depends on your goals. At a simple level, we recommend at least 8-12 weeks of continual development to ensure you are ready for the waters of the Chicago River.
Do you offer any training support?
Yes, all selected participants will receive an Athlete Toolkit, which includes a simple training guide, as well as be connected with local open water swim coaches and events like Open Water Swim CHICAGO.
Can I practice swimming in the river?
No, swimming in Chicago is strictly prohibited outside of event day. Lake Michigan’s beaches are your best option for open water swimming.
SWIM COURSE
Where is the Swim Course?
The Swim Course is set between Ohio Street and Oak Street Beaches, next to Navy Pier and along the Lakefront Trail and Lake Shore Drive. Visit the Course page for more details.
How deep is the river?
The deepest point of the Chicago River is 21 feet.
How deep is the lake?
The deepest points of the rerouted Swim Course in Lake Michigan is approximately 12-15 feet.
What is the average water temperature?
In September, the Chicago River and Lake Michigan temperatures can vary between 62°F and 74°F.
Are wetsuits allowed?
Yes, wetsuits will be permitted for the event (assuming temperatures do not exceed 84°F). Separate scoring will be offered for the wetsuit category.
Are snorkels or other equipment allowed?
Snorkels, flippers, and similar training equipment will not be permitted on event day. Personal swim buoys will be issued by the event and must be worn during the event (participants may not supply their own).
Are there any rules?
Yes. Official rules and safety requirements will be covered in the Athlete Briefing over event weekend.
Is this swim sanctioned by any governing bodies?
Yes, this swim is sanctioned and supported by U.S. Masters Swimming.
Are there awards?
Yes, a total of 24 awards will be distributed to top overall finishers by:
- 2-Mile / 1-Mile
- Female / Male
- Wetsuit / No Wetsuit
WATER QUALITY AND SAFETY
Is the river safe for swimming?
Yes, it will be or we won't swim. The Chicago River Swim will only operate in waters that are deemed safe for human exposure. Event personnel will monitor water quality statistics throughout the season by working with established experts in that field, including the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) and Current's H2NOWChicago waterway monitoring system.
Are there any safety precautions during the swim?
Yes, safety is paramount at the Chicago River Swim. A full safety program will be discussed during event weekend. Some of those components include:
✓ Athlete Briefings
✓ Closed Course
✓ Lifeguards
✓ Rescue Jet Skis
✓ Kayak Marshals
✓ On-Shore Spotters
✓ On-Site Medical Team
✓ RFID Chip Timing
✓ Personal Swim Buoys
✓ Wetsuits Allowed
✓ Hi-Visibility Swim Caps
✓ Surveillance Video
Will there be lifeguards at the event?
Yes. Dozens of lifeguards will monitor the Swim Course in and above the water. More than 100 safety personnel will support the operation.
How does water testing work?
The Chicago River Swim will follow the EPA's 2012 Water Quality Recommendations for e. coli presence in freshwater swimming, and ultimately make decisions using data from MWRD and Current’s H2NOW platform. Please visit the Water Quality page for details.
What if the event is canceled because of poor water conditions?
In the event of heavy rains or other environmental issues that might cancel the September 22 event with enough notice, organizers hope to gain approval of a back-up date scheduled for Sunday, October 6 (two weeks later).
MISCELLANEOUS
Where can spectators best view the swim?
The venue at Ohio Street Beach is incredibly spectator friendly. The public can explore the beach and walk along the entire swim course. Caffe' Oliva will be open for coffee and refreshments during the event, and host the Post Swim Party (open to the public) after the Awards Ceremony.
How can I be a part of the event if I’m not swimming?
The public is encouraged to spectate, submit a donation and/or join us on event weekend as a volunteer!
Who should I contact if I have additional questions?
Participant-related questions can be directed to athletesupport@chicagoriverswim.org
All other general inquiries can be directed to info@chicagoriverswim.org
