Alcatraz Invitational 2024

Welcome to the Alcatraz Invitational 2024! Join us for a thrilling event organized by the South End Rowing Club. Get ready to challenge yourself and have a blast with fellow open-water swimmers. This is an exciting opportunity to experience the iconic crossing of the Bay Area Bay shipping channel with the full safety of boat support. Dive into the invigorating waters, conquer the challenging currents, and embrace the breathtaking views. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure!

Skins or wetsuits, whichever your comfort level. Sign up now and get ready for an epic experience at the Alcatraz Invitational 2024! 1.27 mile open water swim from Alcatraz Island back to the South End Rowing Clubhouse in Aquatic Park in San Francisco.

Event Schedule

Sat, September 7, 2024 6:15 AM - Registration Opens
Sat, September 7, 2024 6:45 AM - Same Day Registration Open (if we have room)
Sat, September 7, 2024 7:10 AM - Regular Registration Closes/Same Day Registration Begins
Sat, September 7, 2024 7:25 AM - Same Day Registration Closes
Sat, September 7, 2024 7:30 AM - Swimmer Briefing
Sat, September 7, 2024 7:45 AM - Swimmers Walk to Ferries at Pier 41
Sat, September 7, 2024 8:15 AM - Ferries Depart Pier 41
Sat, September 7, 2024 8:50 AM - Swim begins 500 ft off Alcatraz, from Abeam Alcatraz, west of the “Warning” sign, likely off Baker B
Sat, September 7, 2024 9:15 AM - Finish line & breakfast opens
Sat, September 7, 2024 10:30 AM - Last swimmer out of the water
Sat, September 7, 2024 10:45 AM - Awards

FAQs

1. What will the water temperature be? The San Francisco Bay in September is typically around 60 to 62 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 17 degrees Celsius). It is important that you experience bay or open water swimming before the Alcatraz Invitational.

2. How can I keep warm in colder water? To help retain body heat and prevent swimmer’s ear infections, South End swimmers often wear a thermal cap (or two) and earplugs. You can also opt to wear a wetsuit.

3. Do you know where I can rent a wet suit? Sports Basement rents Blue Seventy Reaction wetsuits and the rental fee can be applied toward purchase within 90 days.

4. What is your registration transfer policy? No transfers of your registration are allowed.

5. Can I sell my registration to someone else? NO. You have to show an ID at check-in. It needs to match the name on the registration.

6. Do you allow race-day registration? We HIGHLY encourage you to register in advance. We typically sell-out.

7. Do you offer discounts? The South End does not offer discounts for the Alcatraz Invitational.

8. May I purchase a spectator pass to ride on the boat on the day of the event? A limited number of spectator passes are currently available for purchase.

9. If I have family or friends who want to join me for brunch, may they? You may purchase brunch tickets for non-registered swimmers.

10. How can I change my swim division? Please notify registration prior to September 5 by emailing [email protected].

11. Is there a cut-off time for the swim? Generally 90 minutes is the maximum, but we take each swimmer’s situation into consideration and encourage every swimmer to finish.

12. Can I swim with a music device (swimpod)? No.

13. If I have a disability can I still swim in your event? We encourage everyone to swim. We will make every effort to accommodate a person’s specific needs.

14. How do I register a swimmer 14 years of age and younger? Email the race director with the necessary information.

Contact Information

Event contact: Maureen Keefe
Email: [email protected]