Despite the annoying back to school ads that are popping up on the TV – there’s still plenty of summer to go up here in the northern hemisphere. But the weeks are ticking by and it seems like there’s a great open water race to be had every weekend. So as we’re enjoying the fun of July it’s a good time to make plans for September and get plans set for one of the world’s most iconic open water races: The 2014 Waikiki Roughwater Swim, September 1, 2014.
We’ve listed it here as one of our favorite swims and for good reasons. First, it’s Hawaii – duh. Second, the competition is always strong at the top end of the field and has included world champions, Olympians and top open water swimmers from all around the globe. Third, the water is unbelievable – warm (but not too warm), sea turtles, tropical fish and great visibility. Fourth, it’s a celebration of open water swimming – over 1100 swimmers young and old, fast and “less fast” share a bond at the finish line that is fortified through shared experience. Fifth – Hawaiians are super cool – the Aloha spirit is palatable and the local volunteers go the distance to make everyone feel welcome.
So get on it – the organizers have deals with airlines and hotels on their website