Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is the course like?
This is a point-to-point, downstream swim with distance of approximately 10 miles. It begins at the Mt. Holly boat landing and ends at Southpoint boat ramp. Water temperature is expected to be around 76-78 degrees. Current will likely be minimal. The Catawba River is an inland, freshwater river. Swimmers will stay river right and between 10 and 50 yards from shore the entire swim.
- Is there a time limit?
All swimmers must pass a check-in boat at 4.5 miles 2.5 hours after the race start. Swimmers who do not pass the check-in boat by that time will exit the event at the public boat ramp in Belmont at 7308 Wilkinson Blvd. We will also be able to escort you in the safety vessel to the finish as needed. We will have transportation available back to the start for swimmers who are pulled at the Belmont boat ramp.
- Can anyone enter?
Entrants will be asked upon registration to list their race experience and/or training plan. The race director may also reach out to registrants for more information. In order to conduct a safe and successful event, we need to ensure that participants are prepared for the demands of a 10-mile swim, including training and feeding plans. The race director reserves all rights to accept or deny entrants based on his/her judgement. If a swimmer is not a good candidate for this event, the race director will reach out to the registrant, explain the reasoning and issue a full refund.
- Where do I park?
Everyone will arrive and park at the race start. There is plenty of free parking at our boat landing at 724 Elm Ave., Mt. Holly, NC. You will see a sign that says parking is $2/person. Do not pay that. That is included in your race registration fee.
- Do I need a kayak escort?
Yes! All swimmers must have an individual kayak escort. You are welcome to bring your own kayaker to accompany you and assist with feeds/navigation. If you have a kayaker but need a kayak, we can provide that. Follow the options in the checkout form. Kayaks will be available at the start for you. If you need a kayaker and kayak, we can also provide that.
- Is navigation difficult?
No. You will be swimming downstream in a relatively narrow river that is 1/4 mile wide or narrower for much of the race. There will be a well-marked check-in boat at 4.5 miles and a buoy to mark the finish.
- Are relays allowed?
Yes! One member of the relay should fill out the registration. We will follow up to get information for all relay members after registration.
- What about a boat for the relays?
Relays must provide their own escort boats. There is a boat ramp at the start for participants providing their own boat. If you need your own boat, please contact Lake Wylie Boat Rentals. They have two locations and both are convenient to our race start and finish. You are responsible for arrangements with Lake Wylie Boat Rentals or any other rental company you choose to deal with, including payment and delivery of boat to the start.
- How do we get back to the start?
We will provide shuttle service in our bus from the finish back to the start. Shuttles will depart approximately every 30 minutes to transport swimmers from the finish back to the start. Swimmers are also welcome to arrange their own transportation.
- How can my friends and family watch?
As with any marathon swim, spectating can be a challenge. However, this course offers a great sendoff, midway and finish spot to observe. Sendoff is at the start: 724 Elm Ave., Mt. Holly, NC.; Midway is at Riverside Marina,1500 River Dr. Belmont, NC.; Finish is at Southpoint boat landing, Boat Launch Rd., Belmont, NC.
- Is there food afterward?
Yes!
- Awards?
Yes!
- T-shirts?
Yes! Available for purchase at registration.
- What about bad weather?
In the event of inclement weather, the race start will be postponed by up to 2 hours. If the race still cannot be conducted at that time, the race will be cancelled. If the race is cancelled, there will be no refunds.
- What if I have other questions?
Call or text Race Director Doug Miller at 704-737-4011 or email coach@millerswimming.com
