Swimmers to compete in the Chicago River for the first time in nearly a century, as they navigate the historic waterway in an open-water race.
Chicago River Swim Returns After 98-Year Absence
\n\n After a 98-year hiatus, the Chicago River Swim is set to make a splashy return to the Windy City next month. The event, which will serve as a sanctioned open-water swim on the Chicago River, will take place on Sunday, September 21, 2025, and is hosted by a charity called A Long Swim.
\n\n The race will feature 500 qualified swimmers and boasts a prestigious line-up, including US Olympic bronze medalist Natalie Hinds. Hinds, who will participate in the swim, expressed her excitement about being the featured athlete and partnering with an event that champions local learn-to-swim programs.
\n\n To take part in the Chicago River Swim, prior swimming experience is required. However, details about how to apply for the event or the application deadline are not currently available. To find more information and apply for the swim, interested parties are advised to visit the official Chicago River Swim or A Long Swim charity website.
\n\n Applications for the Chicago River Swim are currently open to the public and will remain so until Monday, August 18. It is essential to note that fundraising efforts are required for the event, with the proceeds going towards ALS research, local learn-to-swim efforts, and other charitable causes.
\n\n The Chicago River Swim will be a one or two-mile race through downtown Chicago. Unfortunately, information about the best water shoes and changing robes for the event is not provided.
\n\n Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson hailed the return of the Chicago River Swim as a major victory for the city. He expressed his excitement about the event and looked forward to seeing the city's residents and visitors take to the water.
\n\n For those who missed the 2023 deadline, it is essential to note that the search results do not include direct application instructions or confirm the deadline. To get the most accurate and current registration information, interested parties are advised to check the official Chicago River Swim or A Long Swim charity website or social media pages, event announcements, or official Chicago city event pages related to athletic or open-water swimming events. Since the search results do not include direct application instructions or confirm the deadline, it is recommended to visit the organizer's official channels or contact them directly for detailed application processes and deadlines for future races.
Sports enthusiasts can mark their calendars for the Chicago River Swim, a sanctioned open-water swim event taking place on the Chicago River. The race, featuring participants such as US Olympic bronze medalist Natalie Hinds, promises to be an exciting addition to the Windy City's sports scene.