#USA #Chicago #ALS Research #Chicago River Swim #Doug McConnell

Chicago River Swim: A Historic Return

In an exciting turn of events, the City of Chicago has granted approval for the 2025 Chicago River Swim, marking the first organized open-water swim to take place in the river in nearly a century. This monumental event is set to occur on September 21, 2025, from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, attracting both participants and spectators to celebrate not just the river's revival but also to support good causes.

The swim will serve a dual purpose: it aims to raise funds for ALS research at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and to promote safety in swimming for youth in underserved communities. Mayor Brandon Johnson heralds this return as a significant accomplishment for the city, emphasizing how it reflects the progress and commitment towards enhancing the river's health and accessibility.

The event will feature 500 qualified swimmers, choosing between one or two-mile races along the river's main stem, with the action kicking off from the Dearborn Street Bridge. It’s orchestrated by the nonprofit organization A Long Swim, founded by renowned open-water swimmer Doug McConnell. McConnell underscored that this swimming event transcends recreational activities; it's a homage to Chicago's history and the collective effort towards community empowerment.

The transformation of the Chicago River over the last few decades is nothing short of extraordinary. Once heavily polluted, it now stands as a thriving industrial waterway due to advances in environmental regulations, enhanced wastewater treatments, and efforts led by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District to reduce sewer overflows. Real-time water quality monitoring has been facilitated through a collaboration led by H2NOW Chicago, enabling a resurgence of local aquatic life, including fish and birds.

Investment in the Riverwalk has further revitalized the riverfront, creating a cultural and recreational hub, spearheaded by organizations like the Friends of the Chicago River. Executive Director Margaret Frisbie stated, “We want to demonstrate to the region and the world how much Chicago values its environment and waterways.” She highlighted that swimming in the river underlines the city's commitment to addressing public health and climate resilience.

In a notable partnership, the Chicago River Swim is working alongside the USA Swimming Foundation, with participation from 2020 Olympian Natalie Hinds, who boasts 20 All-American titles and an Olympic bronze medal. Athletes like Hinds are expected to inspire participants and emphasize the importance of swimming as a vital life skill.

Safety is the foremost priority for this event. Organizers have teamed up with various entities, including MWRD and the University of Illinois Chicago, to conduct ongoing water quality tests that will inform decisions leading up to and throughout the event. Over 100 trained safety personnel, including kayakers and boat crews, will be present to monitor the swim course. Advanced safety measures such as autonomous buoys, GPS tracking, and in-water timing systems will be in place. Additionally, the U.S. Coast Guard will restrict river traffic, ensuring that participants can swim safely without interference.

The swim will proceed only if rigorous safety standards and water quality criteria are met, ensuring that if conditions become unsafe, appropriate measures such as delays or cancellations can be swiftly implemented.

For those interested in partaking in this unique opportunity, further information and application details can be found at ChicagoRiverSwim.org. The event promises not only a thrilling swimming experience but also embodies the communal spirit of Chicago, emphasizing environmental progress and inclusivity.