Alcatraz Aquathlon 2009

No, I don,t Know. Good luck

You should definitely do it! I did the Alcatraz Sharkfest in 2006. I had a great time. Good luck! I am sure there are some old threads here about Alcatraz, if you search for them. :cheerleader:

Kate, I'm strongly considering doing this race. Prices are good right now. Although per my Avatar I have swam at aquatic park next to the wharf, in all my years of open water I have never done a Alcatraz swim. I'm hoping this will be the year.

What is the water temp? & distance?

1.5 mile, about 60 degrees avg I'd say

When does the race take place?

I suggest you be one of the first to jump in, you dont want to be near the back of the pack to start.... :bliss:

I did this race last year and had a blast. You are taken by boat out near Alcatraz. When your race starts, you jump off the boat and swim for shore. Everyone wears chips, so your time doesn't start until you cross the mat at the door. I started in the middle of the pack and thought that was fine. There were people in front of me to sight off of and people behind me that could pass me later on the run. The water was chilly, but I wore a wetsuit and had no problems. The sight lines were pretty easy to follow and the current makes things interesting. It was much more fun than a 1.5 mile pool swim. The run is on the Golden Gate Bridge. It is an out and back course and is a nice view. Running up to the bridge is challenging, but it warms you up quickly if you are cold from the run. It should be noted that I am not much of a runner and definitely not a distance swimmer. I think the 100 free is a long race. That being said, I would highly recommend this race. You get two major landmarks in one race. I am not doing it this year, but hope to do it again in the near future. It was a lot of fun.

Good info. Thanx

This Aquathlon is a great event! It was my first experience of both swimming from Alcatraz and running across The Golden Gate Bridge. So I might be a little biased in my enthusiasm... Hope you get a sunny clear day. It is a stunning race course where you get some of the best views of my hometown. Most of the athletes wear wetsuits on the swim when they are doing the swim/run. Don't forget to wear some flowers in your hair.