FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a spot? Registration fills up fast!

We usually open registration on or close to March 1, at 8AM PST. ClubAssistant runs our online registration, and if there’s other popular races opening on the same day at the same time, their server might be wonky (2023 reg, for example). Keep trying! The earlier you get on, the better your chances.

I registered but now I can’t make the race due to injury/illness/out of town/I’m not prepared. Can I get a refund? Or transfer it to a friend? Or defer my registration to next year?

No, we’re sorry, but like every other race out there, we cannot offer refunds for ANY REASON. We do not run a waitlist or do day-of reg due to the complexity of our reg process. So please be sure you can make the race before taking a spot! We’re sorry if you can’t join us, but please let the race director know asap if you’re not swimming.

What if weather is complete crap the day of the race?

We will hold the race in most weather as long as it’s safe to do so, so train for the chop and be ready for rain! If conditions are deemed unsafe (gale force winds, lightning, cloud of locusts, or similar) we will do our best to wait it out. If we need to cancel due to bad conditions, our apologies, but refunds will not be given. Snacks will still be awesome. So there’s that.

Why do you require wetsuits?

We are a USMS sanctioned race, which requires wetsuits be worn in 55-deg water or colder. Previous race-day temps have been over 55-deg, and they have also been under 55-deg (especially morning races). If we don’t require wetsuits and just assume temps will be above 55, and on race day we’re at 54.5, our sanctioning (and insurance) for every single swimmer goes down the toilet. To put it another way: have we ever had a swimmer suffer from heat exhaustion? No. Have we ever had a swimmer get mild hypothermia because they overestimated their cold-water ability? Yes, every single year.

How can I prevent becoming too cold?

Acclimatize! Do some practice swims in cold water. Every body is different, so wear the gear that’s right for you. Pay attention to your body in the water, and become familiar with the signs of early hypothermia. Outdoor Swimmer magazine has a great article: What does hypothermia look like?

I swim year-round without a wetsuit, in saltwater, for 1-mile or more at a time. Can I request a wetsuit waiver?

Yes! Fill out the Google Form to be submitted to the race director for approval. Swimmers must demonstrate enough cold-water race experience to qualify.

Can I wear a mask and snorkel? Fins? Swim buoy?

We are a USMS sanctioned race, which means we follow their rules re: gear. A mask is fine, but we can't allow fins or snorkels. Basically anything that might give a swimmer some kind of advantage is not allowed, unless a swimmer has a permanent physical or cognitive disability, which has been cleared with the race director.

Socks, gloves, and swim buoys are all good! Email the race director if you have more questions.

I’m arriving in Langley via the Mukilteo/Clinton ferry. What ferry should I be on?

We recommend arriving at the race at least 45-min to an hour before the start. The mandatory race meeting is held 30 minutes before the start of each race, so don’t be late! Check the ferry schedule and watch for long lines and cancellation alerts on their site.

What are the maximum time guidelines for finishing the race?

1.2 mile = 60 minutes, 2.4 mile = 110 minutes. We want you to succeed! As long as you’re swimming strong and continuously, we will give you every opportunity to finish the race. If you’re lagging way behind other swimmers and seem to be struggling, we will pull you, for your safety and the safety of others. (Guards are on the water to watch everyone, not just a single swimmer.)

Can I switch distances?

If you registered for the 2.4 distance and want to drop to the 1.2, please let us know as soon as possible by emailing the race director. Day-of switches are possible, but must be requested at check-in.

Why aren’t there more buoys on the return side of the race?

This is an Adventure Swim, folks. Some of it isn’t easy. Follow the shoreline. If you’re going off-course toward Camano, guards and kayakers will tell you to adjust course (and please don’t argue with them, they can see your trajectory much better than you can).

Will I be safe out there?

There are lifeguards stationed within the rectangle of the race, and kayakers around the entire perimeter of that rectangle. Powerboats, including an EMT fire boat, are anchored along the outside edge of the race. Lots of eyes will be on you. BUT you need to do your part too:

Take care of yourself so others don’t have to. If for any reason you need to get out, we’ve got you.

I can swim the distance in a pool, but haven’t ever been in open water. What should I do?

Get as much swim time in open salt water as possible! It will acclimatize your body to colder temps, get you accustomed to weather, currents, and waves, and you’ll figure out what gear works best for you. Find a local open-water swim community and get on in!

Are there practice swims on Whidbey before race day?

There are no official practice swims, but there are regular Whidbey swims at Robinson Beach every Saturday morning at 8:30AM, and you’d be welcome to join. Contact the race director for more information.

How do I contact the race director?

racedirector@whidbeyadventureswim.org

What else can I expect on race day?

All race information, including race day schedule, rules, directions, accommodations, and where to park, can be found on our website.

See you out there!