Bob,
Here's a race report I wrote for the 2010 DLOWC:
www.freshwaterswimmer.com/.../report-dlowc
And here's one from 2011 by Open Water Chicago:
openwaterchicago.com/.../swim-report-june-5-2011-diamond-lake-open-water-challenge
Cliffs Notes summary, from my own perspective:
- Gorgeous location, and an easy drive from Chicago.
- Organized by competent and friendly people.
- Expect a water temp of around 70F. Wetsuits allowed but scored in separate division.
- Course layout is kinda boring: An out-and-back 2.5K, which you do 2 loops of for 5K and 4 loops for 10K.
- Not particularly competitive - possibly a good thing for beginners but (IMO) less interesting for faster swimmers.
- Great post-race food!
Former Member
Thanks very much. Living in West Branch Iowa, most open water swims are a drive. I don't mind that. This sounds like a perfect event for me to start the summer season. I guess if I swim more than 10k, like you did, then it's a better workout for me.
Bob
