River Day SwimFest and SwimRun
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Location and Date
The event takes place in Norristown, Pennsylvania. Participants should use the GPS address 1400 S. Trooper Rd. for parking, which is available in a lot. From the lot, a walk of about 200 yards east along an asphalt path leads to the launch area on the Schuylkill River.
Events
The event features several open water swimming and SwimRun options:
- 5K Open Water Swim
- 1 Mile Open Water Swim
- 800 Meter Open Water Swim
- SwimRun (800m Swim, 5K Run, 800m Swim)
- 5K Relay (3x1 mile)
Course and Event Details
The 5K swim course involves three loops, while all other swims are one loop. The SwimRun consists of an 800m swim, a 5K run (two loops), and a final 800m swim. A small, unfenced transition area is available for the SwimRun to change shoes. The event provides kayak and boat support on the water.
There are no hydration or nutrition stops provided on any of the courses. Swimmers in the 5K event may place their own nutrition at the start/finish area and at the one and two mile marks. An aid station near the swim exit for the SwimRun will be passed at least four times during the run, where participants may also stash their own nutrition.
Cutoff times are enforced: three hours for the 5K swim, one hour for the 1 mile swim, and 30 minutes for the 800m swim. Swimmers expecting to take longer than two hours for the 5K are encouraged to bring an escort kayaker and their own nutrition.
Awards and Facilities
Custom overall and age group awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in each classification. There are no restroom or changing facilities on site. The nearest restroom is at the Betzwood trailhead parking lot, approximately 600 meters away.
Rules and Policies
The event follows USA Triathlon wetsuit rules, where wetsuits cannot be worn if the water temperature exceeds 84ºF and swimmers wearing them are not counted in official results if the temperature is above 78ºF. Water temperature in early August is likely to be above 78ºF.
The event is held rain or shine but may be postponed due to lightning or poor water quality from stormwater runoff. There are no refunds, but funds can be transferred to a different event if requested at least seven days in advance. Deferrals are offered if the race is cancelled due to weather. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
