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 $100 (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 $1,750 (USD) for 2-mile swimmers or $1,250 (USD) for 1-mile swimmers to support event beneficiaries.
• 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 while the application window is open (August 5 - 11).

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 soon after applications close. 
*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 2025 Chicago River Swim can defer to the 2026 event by notifying staff by Sunday, August 24 at 11:59 PM CDT. Deferred participants will receive guaranteed entry in the 2026 event, but must pay all relevant 2026 registration fees and fundraise the full amount. Deferrals into the 2026 event will not be available after August 24, 2025.

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 2026 application processed will be announced following the 2025 event.

Where is the Swim Course?
The Swim Course is set between Wolf Point and the State Street Bridge along the Chicago Riverwalk. Visit the Course page for more details.

How deep is the river?
The main stem of the Chicago River averages 19-21' deep.

What is the average water temperature?
In September, much like Lake Michigan, the Chicago River temperatures 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

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 UIC School of Public Health (who conduct the same testing at Chicago Park District Beaches, 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?
Analysis and confirmation of the suitability of Chicago River water for swimmers is the qPRC testing protocol through the University of Illinois at Chicago. This is the same testing system utilized by the Chicago Park District to analyzes water quality on its beaches. 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 21 event with enough notice, organizers will attempt to find a back-up date. Otherwise, participants will be deferred to 2026.

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.

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 $1,250 to $1,750 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.

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 2025 participants: 

• Milestone 1 (50% of fundraising complete): Monday, September 1
• Milestone 2 (100% of fundaising complete): Wednesday, Septemer 17

Where can spectators best view the swim?
The Chicago Riverwalk is incredibly spectator friendly. The public may access all points west of the Clark Street Bridge, including the Finish Line at the River Theater.

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