What events would you recommend for a newcomer to the sport. I am decades ago age group swimmer, who recently completed a half ironman event, with swim time of ~40. I am also in the 50+ Female age group.
Are there non competitive or less competitive events that would be appropriate for this type of time? Looking in for August-September events in the midwest, and appreciate all suggestions.
Big Shoulders in Chicago would be a good choice. Try the 2.5K if you don't think you're ready for a 5K. The water temp is usually good, there are swimmers of all speeds, and the course is mostly protected by breakwaters so waves don't get too big. The event is Saturday, September 11th this year.
Sorry, don't know any midwest races, but I find the "culture" of open water swimming to be very open to swimmers of all speeds, types, body shapes, etc. At your speed, you will definitely not be last. I'd say any race 1 to 2 miles would work great. OWS is such that the speedsters can get out front and battle for the win, while the rest of us can just go for our own PRs, or cruise the swim with friends.
Good luck!
