USA Swimming announced today the latest addition in virtual competitions for USA Swimming member clubs and athletes. The 2021 Virtual Distance Challenge allows athletes to swim open water distances in their own local swimming pools.  

"We are proud to provide another competitive opportunity for USA Swimming athletes across the country,” USA Swimming Managing Director of Sport Development Joel Shinofield said. “Our coaches and athletes have asked for more distance-based competitions and this series is part of meeting that need. This is a great opportunity for our athletes to compete in open water distances, whether they are first time open water swimmers or veterans.”  

The month-long virtual competition will run May 1-31, 2021 to allow athlete competition on a national level within specific age groups. Age group events include: 

11-12: 1k 
13-14: 2k 
Open: 3k 
Open: 5k 

To provide greater opportunity for swimmers across the country, there are no time standard qualifications and events can be swum at non-sanctioned swim meets. In addition, clubs may host as many competitions as they want throughout the month.  

A swimmer’s age group is determined by their respective age on May 1, 2021. All results must be submitted by June 1, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. MST to be counted in the final results. 

Competitions must conform to local, state and federal public health guidelines.