1.2 mile

    1.2 Mile Race Information

    Register for 1.2 mile swim here

    This swim is a one-loop course out and back the South Bay swim beach. The course starts in the water by the beach/swim ramp, does a triangular course, finishing out of the water, on the beach/swim ramp. This race includes both a wetsuit and non-wetsuit division.  You’ll indicate which you want to participate in during the registration process.

    Parking

    NEW in 2025

    There is limited parking available at Horsetooth Reservoir. Participants will have following options

    1. The option of paying extra to park at the reservoir. You will also need to have a Larimer County Entrance Permit in addition to this fee.
    2. The option of parking at the Holiday Twin Drive-In,  2206 S Overland Trail, Fort Collins and be bused to/from the venue. The buses will run from Holiday Twin Theater starting at 5:30am and the last bus will leave at 6:00am, do not be late. The buses will return to the Holiday Twin Theater starting at 8am, running every 30 minutes until 11am.
    3. The option of carpooling with someone that is paying to park at the reservoir. Please enter the name of the person you are carpooling with when you register.

    Larimer County Entrance Permits

    Everyone parking at the reservoir will be required to have either an annual Larimer County Park Entrance Permit or purchase a Daily Larimer County Park Entrance Permit. You can find options on how to do this at Entrance Permits

    Eligibility

    The 1.2 mile event is open to all swimmers at least 11 years of age on race day.

    Race rules

    1. Swimmers must wear the race-provided swim cap.
    2. All WOWSA rules apply including swimsuit definitions. Exceptions and clarifications include:
      1. Drafting: Unlike many open water events, the Horsetooth Open Water Swims does not allow drafting except where unavoidable at the start. If flagrant drafting (of another swimmer or of the support craft) is observed, that swimmer will be disqualified.
      2. Swimsuits: WOWSA Marathon and Channel Rules state swimsuits shall not go beyond the end of the groin or shoulders.  The Horsetooth Open Water Swim allows the swimsuit to extend to the knees.

    Awards

    First and second place, male and female, will receive an etched stemless wine glass in each category (wet suit and non-wet suit).