In an exciting development for the masters open water swimming community, the new Aqua Zone Portland Mile will offer a US$25,000 purse to pros and masters on August 22nd. The main race is a 1-mile swim in Willamette River that runs through Portland and will be covered live by SlowTwitch.
In the elite division, athletes must swim faster than 17:30 for 1500 meters or 1650 yards and will be competing for the $5,000 first prize, $1,500 second prize and $500 third prize, for both men and wome.
The first-place in the 20-29 year division (both male and female) will receive $400 and a technical swimsuit worth $390. Second-place will receive US$100.
The first-place in the 30-39 year division (both male and female) will receive $600 and a technical swimsuit worth $390. Second-place will receive $200; third-place will receive $100.
The first-place in the 40-49 year division (both male and female) will receive $600 and a technical swimsuit worth $390. Second-place will receive $200; third-place will receive $100.
The first-place in the 50-59 year division (both male and female) will receive $400 and a technical swimsuit. Second-place will receive $100.
The first-place in the 60+ year division (both male and female) will receive a technical swimsuit.
Although only athletes with FINA-approved swimsuits are eligible for the cash prizes, those who simply wish to participate in a wetsuit or any other type of swimwear are also welcome.
Additionally, there is a $500 cash prize for the swimmer who is closest to their predicted time. In case of a tie, the oldest athlete wins.
