#USA #Chicago #ALS Research #Chicago River Swim #A Long Swim

Chicago River Swim Makes a Comeback

On September 21, 2025, the Chicago River came alive with the splash of swimmers, marking a significant milestone after a nearly 100-year hiatus. The Chicago River Swim, organized by the nonprofit organization A Long Swim, attracted thousands, uniting swimmers, civic leaders, and spectators in the heart of downtown.

The event raised $150,000 to support ALS research at the Ozdinler Lab of Northwestern University and to promote swim education programs at the Salvation Army Kroc Center.

A Celebration of Resilience

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson opened the event, highlighting the river's transformation from a polluted waterway to a clean, safe environment for recreation. "The Chicago River Swim symbolizes Chicago's resilience and progress. It showcases our commitment to restoring our environment for future generations,” he remarked.

Joining him on stage was Olympian and USA Swimming Ambassador Natalie Hinds, who emphasized the importance of water safety and access for young swimmers.

Doug McConnell, co-founder of A Long Swim, shared a personal touch, reflecting on his family’s struggles with ALS and underscoring the dual mission of the Swim, which is not only focused on competition but also on honoring the river’s revival and funding vital research.

Since its inception, A Long Swim has notably raised over $3 million for ALS research, combining a love for the sport with a passion for advocacy.

A Thriving Community Event

The race featured around 263 swimmers who participated in one- and two-mile courses along the river. Spectators cheered from the Riverwalk, creating an energetic atmosphere that was palpable.

The competition saw impressive performances from local athletes, with Olympian Olivia Smoliga winning the women's one-mile race in a time of 22:45, while Levy Nathan claimed the men's title with his time of 22:22. In the two-mile event, both Becca Mann and Isaac Eilmes emerged victorious in 40:07 and 40:13 respectively, showcasing both skill and stamina in a historic swim.

Environmental Progress and Safety

The event was not just about competition; it underscored significant environmental strides made in restoring the Chicago River as a clean swimming venue. The river has transformed dramatically, with pollution levels at record lows, allowing over 80 species of fish and a variety of wildlife to thrive once more. This remarkable turnaround is attributed to stringent regulations, innovative wastewater treatment solutions, and sustained advocacy efforts from local organizations like Friends of the Chicago River.

Safety was a top priority, with more than 100 trained personnel on-site, including lifeguards and monitors on support boats. Water quality testing played a crucial role in ensuring a safe swimming environment. The University of Illinois Chicago conducted extensive testing along the racecourse, with all results indicating conditions well within Environmental Protection Agency guidelines.

Abhilasha Shrestha, a Research Assistant Professor at UIC, noted the positive impact of science in enhancing athlete safety, emphasizing how collaborative efforts could lead to cleaner public waterways.

Looking Forward

The success of the Chicago River Swim not only celebrates the event’s return but also highlights the importance of whole-community involvement in preserving and cherishing such a valuable natural resource. As the river continues to thrive, events like these serve to inspire future generations to appreciate, protect, and enjoy the beauty of our urban waterways.

For further details and future updates, visit www.chicagoriverswim.org.