The Across the Lake Swim Society has now opened registration for its two open water swim events this summer - Kelowna and Peachland (Rattlesnake Island).
The Interior Savings Across the Lake Swim Kelowna is Canada's largest and longest running open water swim. The event on July 15 will mark the 69th consecutive edition that is also ranked as the #5 best open water swim in the world.
This epic swim offers a challenge for the young and old, newly minted swimmers or seasoned racers. Since its beginning in 1949, swimmers of all ages and abilities have challenged themselves to swim 2.1 kilometres across Okanagan Lake, from West Kelowna to Hot Sands Beach in Kelowna. Last year saw 1,200 registrants. This year event organizers expect 1,500 swimmers.
The Interior Savings Across the Lake Swim Rattlesnake Island swim is Canada’s destination swim in historic Peachland and one of the best kept secrets in the open water swimming community.
Taking place on Aug. 5, two distance options are available: a one-way, 3.1 kilometre swim across Okanagan Lake, from Rattlesnake Island to Peachland, and a more challenging seven kilometre out-and-back swim that loops around the back of Rattlesnake Island.
“Swimmers from both events can also attend the six consecutive Blue Seventy Open Water Swim Clinics that are included for free to all registered participants” sais Kelowna Race Director Peter Rudd. The clinic coaches teach all swim abilities including beginners and anxious swimmers. Rudd adds that “the Rattlesnake Island swim includes an additional clinic in Peachland’s Swim Bay to help swimmers experience the environment they’ll be swimming in two weeks later.”
Visit Kelowna's Across the Lake and Rattlesnake Island's swim for details and registration.
Insider’s tip: It’s a good idea to register early, as the swims have sold out for past events.