Rules & Regulations

For Swimmers:

  • Wet suits are allowed and encouraged.
  • Swim aids (fins, pull buoys, etc.) are not allowed.
  • Swim caps that are supplied MUST be worn.
  • Each junior swimmer (12 years & under) MUST be accompanied by at least two people in an escort boat. However, escort canoes and kayaks are highly recommended for all swimmers.
  • Swimmers participating without an escort boat do so at their own risk.
  • If you are unable to complete the swim (or do not start the swim), please inform a lifeguard or race official with a radio as soon as possible.
  • If in trouble and you need help, stop, try to stay calm, and wave a hand above your head. A power boat or an escort kayak should be by quickly to assist you. If an escort kayak arrives before a power boat, have one of the paddlers to wave a paddle above their head to attract a power boat over.

For Support Boaters:

  • There must be a PFD or lifejacket for each person in the boat plus one for the swimmer.
  • You are responsible for having all the proper equipment (e.g. PFD, re-boarding device, throw line, bailer, sound signaling device, etc.) and knowing the regulations that apply to small watercraft. See this Transport Canada website
  • Escort boats must stay clear of the start and finish lines. It is vital at the start area that escort boats watch their swimmer from afar and join them once swimmers thin out. Boats must not block the path of any swimmer as they maneuver to meet and stay with their own swimmer.
  • Please stay on the right (bridge) side of the swimmer all the way across the lake.
  • Please do not enter your boat into the finish area or beach it there. Please paddle your boat to the right (bridge) side of the finish line and pull your boat up the beach.
  • NO POWER BOATS ALLOWED except for designated volunteer patrol boats. Kayakers & Canoeists MUST NOT launch their boats from the swimmers’ start area.
  • The start area is reserved for swimmers only! Please launch from an alternate location; City Park is recommended. Then, paddle across the lake to meet your swimmer and commence the swim at 8:00am. Please remove canoes and kayaks at the public boat launch at Hot Sands Beach after the awards ceremony.
  • Good luck and have fun!
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