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Delaware SwimFest

Mon, Jun 8, 2026, 6:00 PM EDT

Location
Newark, DE
240 Old Paper Mill Rd., 19711
Type
SWIMRUN

Sign up and verify details on the organizer’s official page.

At a glance

Dive into the Delaware SwimFest for timed open water races, offering 800m or 1600m challenges with a fun "party" heat option.

  • Fun
  • Competitive

The Delaware SwimFest, presented by French Creek Racing, invites swimmers to challenge themselves in open water at the Newark Reservoir. Choose from an 800m or 1600m race, or tackle both for an extra test of endurance. Races are timed, with custom awards for top finishers in various categories and age groups. Participants should be confident in their open water swimming ability. The event offers a structured experience with wave starts and a dedicated "party" heat for a lively atmosphere.

What to expect

  • Choose between 800m, 1600m, or both distances in open water.
  • Enjoy a timed race experience with wave starts and a lively "party" heat option.
  • Hydration and nutrition support, including water, Gatorade, and gels, plus post-race refreshments.

Standout details

  • Main "party" heat at 7:30PM
  • Custom awards for top 3 finishers
  • Wetsuit guidelines based on water temperature
  • Required bright colored cap or swim buoy

Auto-drafted from the public listing — confirm details on the official event page before signing up.

Distances & registration

3 options

Registration for all distances is through the official signup link above.

  • 800m

    Mon, Jun 8, 6:00 PM EDT · From $43.40

    Opens Nov 18, 2025, 7:00 PM EST · Closes Jun 8, 2026, 3:00 PM EDT

  • 1600m

    Mon, Jun 8, 6:00 PM EDT · From $48.70

    Opens Nov 18, 2025, 7:00 PM EST · Closes Jun 8, 2026, 3:00 PM EDT

  • 2.2 Miles

    Mon, Jun 8, 6:00 PM EDT · From $69.90

    Opens Nov 19, 2025, 7:44 AM EST · Closes Jun 8, 2026, 3:00 PM EDT

Vibe Check

Easygoing

  • Rolling area

The course

  • Rolling
  • Timed race
From the organizer

Welcome to the Delaware SwimFest presented by French Creek Racing!

Swimmers can choose an 800m race, 1600m race, or for a challenge - both races!

Swimmers should be confident of their ability to swim 800/1600 meters in open water before entering.

We follow USAT's guidelines for use of wetsuits. Anything below 78ºF will be wetsuit legal and above 78º will be non-wetsuit. Anyone who wishes to wear a wetsuit above 78ºF will simply compete as an unofficial racer.

Start/finish area is at the caged area near the top of the hill at the Newark Reservoir.  GPS address to parking lot is 240 Old Paper Mill Rd., Newark, DE 19711.  There are bathrooms at the parking lot at the bottom of the hill.  Please make sure to use facilities as needed before walking up the hill.  Additional/overflow parking is located at Timothy's, 100 Creek View Rd., Newark, DE 19711.

Register today for your choice of races!

FORMAT: Swimmers will go off in groups at specified wave start times. The first swimmers will begin at 6:00 PM.  Swimmers will get to choose their heats at 30 minute intervals, including the main "party" heat at 7:30PM.  1600 meter swimmers must start no later than 7:00PM.

REGISTRATION: Pre-registration is available until 9AM on race day.  Registration is also available on site for an additional $5 fee. You will select your wave start time during the registration process.  If you need to change your start wave, please email us. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your assigned wave time.  You may warm up in the vicinity of the start/finish area prior to your wave start time.  When you arrive, check in at our table.  You'll get body marked and you'll receive a swim cap.  A bright colored cap or New Wave Swim Buoy must be worn by all racers.  Please let us know in advance if you need to purchase a NWSB.

REFUNDS: No refunds will be issued. If requested at least 7 days in advance, we will be able to transfer your funds to a different training or race event.

The 1600m swim course will be 2 laps of the 800m course.

SWIM FINISH: These races will be timed. Your time will stop when you touch the floating finish banner.

Prizes Custom awards will be given for the top 3 in each category and age group, based on points scored in each race. Award winners must be present at the final race of the season (8/26) to claim their awards.

Volunteers Volunteers are the backbone of our events! We need lifeguaurds, kayakers, and much more. Please contact erin@frenchcreekracing.com to help out, or simply register as a volunteer!

There will be one nutrition/hydration table near the reservoir entrance (caged area at the top of the hill).  We will have water, Gatorade, and Hammer gels at this table.  Some light pre-packaged food and beverages will be available for post-race.

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