Official page for the Bridges to Bluffs Open Water Swim. Knoxville Open Water Swimmers (KOWS) and Tennessee Aquatics are proud to host the “Bridges to Bluffs” Open Water Swim. This is the only 10k swim in the country with an “off the boat” start and downstream swim with a two-person relay option.We are a U.S. Masters sanctioned open water event (sanction number 157-W004). Included with r
egistration, swimmers and their kayakers (pilots) will be treated on Saturday to a pre-race dinner cruise on the Star of Knoxville (mandatory athlete/pilot and course preview). Swimmers and guides will receive a quality race shirt, custom finisher’s award, post-race lunch, and race photos. There is a 4 hour cutoff for this event. Here are the times (on average) you need to understand before signing up:
4hr 10K swim = 38 minutes 37 seconds per mile for 6.2 miles. This breaks down to a 2:12/100yd or 2:24/100m.
2. Pilots and kayaks are available for purchase during registration. Rented boats will be delivered on race morning. Details will be provided in registration confirmation. SUPS (stand up paddle boards), canoes, and 2 person kayaks are not allowed. All kayaks must have a PFD (personal flotation device).
3. ABSOLUTELY NO HEADPHONES/WATERPROOF IPODS ALLOWED.
4. You must be a member of USMS upon registration (can purchase one day membership for $20 with registration - relay participants must register separately).
5. Water temps generally range from 70-76 degrees in September.
10K Solo Swimmers: This race will follow English Channel swimming rules. This means: 1) No swim suits below the knees or shoulders; 2) No wetsuits or suits that provide buoyancy; 3) No swim aids; 4) There is to be no contact between you and your pilot's boat or other swimmers.
