Beaufort River Swim and 5K Run

The 21st Annual Beaufort River Swim and 5K Run

The event takes place at the Downtown Safe Harbor Beaufort Marina in Beaufort, South Carolina, and offers several open-water swim and run formats. Distances available include:

• 3.2 miles River Swim
• 1 mile Swim
• 3.2 miles Swim plus 5K Run single participant
• 1 mile Swim plus 5K Run single participant
• 3.2 miles Swim and 5K Relay
• 1 mile Swim and 5K Relay

The 3.2 mile swim follows the Beaufort River estuary, starting at Safe Harbor Port Royal Landing Marina and finishing at the day dock adjacent to Beaufort Waterfront Park. The 1 mile swim follows the same path but begins at the Beaufort Memorial Hospital dock; both swims finish at the downtown marina. Swims are conducted with the tide; water temperatures are typically in the mid 70s and surface conditions can range from calm to choppy.

Race logistics include bus transport for swimmers to their starting points and packet pick-up at the Wardle Family YMCA in Port Royal and at the downtown marina during check-in. All swimmers must check in on race day to receive chip timers, body markings, and assigned swim caps. Equipment rules state no headphones or swim-enhancing devices; wetsuits are allowed but make a swimmer ineligible for awards.

Safety is provided by the Beaufort Search and Rescue Squadron with kayakers, safety vessels, SUPs, and lifeguards. The 5K route has been altered due to waterfront renovations and uses the brick path, playground area, Woods Memorial swing bridge and Meridian Road, with runners returning along the same route. Entry fees are non-refundable; in the event of cancellation the safety provider will make the final call. Proceeds benefit the Wardle Family YMCA Learn to Swim program. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

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