The Hudson River Swim For Life

Registration For Swimmers Ends September 2nd!

For 20 years, The Hudson River Swim For Life has been recognized as the premiere swim on the Hudson.  The 2011 event takes place on Saturday, September 10th.  All proceeds from the Swim will benefit the Westchester/Hudson Valley Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).

Participants will have several options to conquer the Hudson and support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society:

• Three-Mile Swim: A once in a lifetime experience swimming across the Hudson River! This swim begins in Nyack and finishes at Kingsland Point Park in Sleepy Hollow. You must be in good physical condition and it is strongly recommended that you be able to swim a continuous mile in a 25yd pool within 45 minutes. If unable to do so we recommend you sign-up for the One-Mile swim.
• One-Mile Swim: For those swimmers interested in completing a shorter route, a One-Mile Swim will be offered along the shores of Sleepy Hollow. 
• Kayaking: For those who would like to participate on the water rather than in it, we welcome you to participate as a kayaker. These volunteers are essential to guiding and assisting the swimmers in the water for safety.  This year’s event is expected to require 150 kayakers. FYI: Kayakers will be going across the river and back, therefore you may be kayaking for 1-6 miles based on your ability.

For the past twenty years thousands of swimmers have crossed the Hudson River in support of others and have done so in a safe manner. This is due to a rigorous permit process imposed by the U.S. Coast Guard on all marine events and activities which may impede commercial shipping and marine traffic.

The 2011 Hudson River Swim for Life is responsible to enforce and comply with all U.S. Coast Guard regulations and directives and for the overall safety of swimmers, kayakers and vessels associated with the event.

Please note the following additional safety requirements for 2011:

- There is a three hour time limit to complete the swim. Swimmers may be moved closer to the finish area for any reason and at any time at the direction of the Zone Commander. All must comply when directed to do so or you will be disqualified from future participation.

- All swimmers are required to reach the 1 mile buoy mark within 1 hour of their start time or they will be moved to the finish area. All must comply when directed to do so or you will be disqualified from future participation.

- Assessment of swimmer performance will be on-going throughout the event and every precaution will be taken to ensure a safe and timely conclusion.

Since its inception over 20 years ago, the mission of the Hudson River Swim For Life has been to raise awareness of the Hudson River, promote swimming as a lifelong form of fitness, and to raise funds for the ongoing efforts of charities in the community.  Overall, the event has raised approximately $2 million for local non-profit organizations. Thank you for taking part in our mission.