Swim organizers have recognized the growing difficulty of obtaining numerous boaters to assist relays (not solo swimmers who only use kayaks.) If your relay is able to provide its own boat for the event, thank you and problem solved. For those who wish to swim yet do not have a boat, we will provide a list of past boaters who have assisted and the relay swimmers can make their own arrangements. Kathleen will help as she is able, however the uncertainty of obtaining boats has become a true obstacle for race organization and planning.
Also, swimmers cancelling prior to the event within eight (8) weeks of the scheduled swim date will forfeit the entry fee. Swimmers cancelling beyond eight (8) weeks have the option of deferring the entry fee for one year only or obtaining a 50% refund.
Swimmers must show sufficient progress by the halfway point in order to continue on with the swim. The U. S. Coast Guard and area agencies staff the swim and must keep one asset with the lead swimmer, one asset with the final swimmer and other assets with the bulk of the field. When the final swimmer(s) fall badly behind, even though they may be able to continue and show no distress, it creates such a large gap in the overall field that our agencies are not able to provide the level of safety that they deem acceptable. Our waterways are still open to the public and safety agencies must alert the public to the ongoing race as well as monitor the swimmers. With a large and increasing separation from first to final swimmer, it becomes increasingly difficult.
The first half of SAC is the faster portion. If swimmers are not able to achieve the first half in under three (3) hours, this is roughly at the Ashley River Bridges, they are subject to being pulled from the race as it is highly unlikely that the swimmer(s) will finish in six hours, or even 6 1/2 hours.
We ask that swimmers prepare and have the ability to swim continuously for a sustained period of time at a sufficient pace, under 30 minute miles in a pool setting. Coupled with tide assist, this should allow for a six hour finish. The field often experiences more chop and wind in the second half of the event. This timetable will be reassessed with the entire field should overall race conditions warrant adjustment.
Rules
For more information about the race please check the FAQ page.
A completed Race Entry Form and payment is required for participation.
TWO-PERSON RELAY INSTRUCTIONS:
- Swimmers must alternate every 30 minutes (no exceptions). The order of the swimmers must be maintained throughout the swim.
- The transition from one swimmer to the next must be executed by approaching the swimmer in the water from behind, and the transition is considered complete when the entering swimmer fully passes the departing swimmer.
- Relay team members must enter the water feet first. Failure to follow these rules will result in disqualification.
FOUR PERSON RELAY INSTRUCTIONS:
- All four swimmers must swim an initial leg of 30 minutes and once completed, begin 15 minute legs. The order of swimmers must be maintained throughout the swim.
- The transition from one swimmer to the next must be executed by approaching the swimmer in the water from behind, and the transition is considered complete when the entering swimmer fully passes the departing swimmer.
- Relay team members must enter the water feet first. Failure to follow these rules will result in disqualification.
