Largest swimming race (open water)

The most particiants in an open water race is 13,755 and was achieved at the 2009 Midmar Mile at Midmar Dam, Howick, near Pietermartizburg, South Africa, from 7-8 February 2009.

The race was divided into eight events over two days with the following taking part in each event.

Event 1 (Ironman, Ironlady and Disabled swimmers): 340 finishers

Event 2 (Company relay): 1901

Event 3 (Non-Company relay): 3200

Event 4 (Family relay): 1726

Event 5 (Girls under 13 and Women over 31): 1308

Event 6 (Boys under 13 and Men over 31): 1693

Event 7 (Ladies 14-30): 1812

Event 8 (Men 14-30): 1775

 

The relay events consisted of a team of five people all swimming the mile with the best 3 results from each team combined to give the final total. The event was attended by several Olympians including Chad Ho (competed in men's 10 km open water swimming in 2008 Olympics) who finished 3rd in Event 8 and Terence Parkin (Silver medallist in 200 metres breaststroke at 2000 Olympics) who took part in Event 1. The fastest time overall was by Riaan Schoeman (South Africa) who won Event 8 in 17 min 34 sec. The oldest swimmer was 85 years old. The event was supported by Midmar Dam Kwazulu Natal Wildlife, SA Navy, South African Police Services, Road Traffic Authorities, Lifeguards Africa/Tower 13 Lifeguards, ER 24 Medical Rescue Service, Garmin and Mr Price.