NYC SWIM

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did NYC Swim decide to change the location of the Aquathlon and Swim?

Since 2006, the Stars & Stripes: Aquathlon and Swim has grown rapidly, becoming one of the largest events of our summer series. At the same time, Riverside Park and the waterfront recreation path running through it, the site of the race, have become increasingly popular with city residents. The area is simply becoming too popular for us to be able to safely organize the event during public hours without shutting down the park.

We have found what we think is an ideal new location for the event — one that will afford participants an exciting new course as well as allow us to continue grow the event over the next 5 to 10 years. Randall’s Island is an undiscovered NYC jewel, and its refurbished waterfront provides an excellent and incredibly scenic location for an NYC Swim event. The views are fantastic and the course is designed to make this event an interesting addition to our racing series. Plus, it's an opportunity to showcase another New York island and help people connect with the waterfront in new ways.

Will the current be with us or against us?

The layout of the course means that the current will be both with you and against you during the swim. Not to worry though; the waters off Randall’s Island, between the foot bridge and the Triborough Bridge, is one of the few areas off the Manhattan shoreline where the current never goes very fast in either direction. It's much more like a lake than a tidal river.

Will my friends be able to watch me?

The Stars & Stripes: Aquathlon and Swim course and start time are very spectator-friendly. Your cheering section can follow you on the swim by walking along either the Manhattan or Randall's Island shorefront as you make your way south on the course. The run takes place on a public path and gives runners (and viewers) the opportunity to take advantage of one of the longest uninterrupted, non-paved shoreline paths in New York City.