Chicago River Swim Returns For The First Time In Practically A Century

DOWNTOWN — For the primary time in 98 years, the Chicago River will host an open water swim occasion early this fall.

The occasion — which was accepted by the town after officers denied it a allow final 12 months — takes place Sept. 21 and can function 500 certified swimmers navigating a one or two mile course via a stretch of the river Downtown, organizers introduced Thursday.

The occasion is ready to start on the Dearborn Street Bridge and finish close to the Clark Street Bridge, adopted by a competition alongside the Riverwalk with occasions for Chicagoans of all ages.

“The return of the Chicago River Swim marks a major victory for our city — a testament to decades of hard work revitalizing our river,” Mayor Brandon Johnson mentioned in an announcement.

The occasion will have a good time the town’s progress in cleansing up the river and assist generate funds for ALS analysis, for Northwestern University’s medical college and for youth swim teaching programs all through the town.

“I commend the organizers for their commitment to safety and dedication to empowering Black and Brown youth through swim education,” Johnson mentioned. “This event is a celebration of Chicago’s progress and a brighter, more inclusive future.”

U.S. Olympian and bronze medalist Natalie Hinds will function the featured athlete for the Chicago River Swim, organizers introduced.

“I’m truly honored to be the featured athlete for the Chicago River Swim,” Hinds mentioned in an announcement. “Partnering with an event that champions local learn‑to‑swim programs in Chicago is both inspiring and deeply meaningful to me.”

Chicago River Swim fundraiser occasion was to be held within the river final 12 months, however organizers introduced the occasion earlier than securing permits, which have been ultimately denied. The occasion then moved to Lake Michigan.

This 12 months’s occasion marks the return of swimming within the river, with such occasions banned beginning within the Twenties due to sewage and different air pollution within the physique of water.

“The Chicago River Swim is possible because of the collaborative revitalization efforts of people who understand the value of healthy waterways for recreation and more, ” mentioned Alaina Harkness, CEO of Current, a Chicago-based water innovation nonprofit.

Swim organizers say the swim will solely occur if the river meets all security requirements for human contact. Data collected within the lead as much as the occasion will information the decision.

Last 12 months’s occasion in Lake Michigan raised over $200,000 for ALS analysis and youth swim security applications.

Applications for the 2025 Chicago River Swim are at present open to the general public via 10:00 p.m. Monday. There isn’t any payment to use, and prior swim expertise is required. Selected people might be notified of their acceptance and should agree to satisfy fundraising necessities previous to the occasion. Find full particulars here.

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