North America (1)
Past editions
World Aquatics is the sport's international governing body, so these are sanctioned championship events rather than open-entry swims. Fields come through national federations. If you want a 10 km you can enter directly, look at the open water and swim-run listings rather than this page.
The 10 km marathon swim is the Olympic open water distance and it is raced in a pack, with contact, drafting and feeding from a pontoon. Water temperature rules decide whether wetsuits are permitted, and at this level they usually are not.
We rate all three at 5 out of 5 for difficulty. Santa Fe is the junior championship, so the field there is age-restricted.
Frequently asked questions
Can I enter these open water races?
No. World Aquatics is the sport's international governing body and these are sanctioned championship events, with fields coming through national federations. For a 10 km you can enter directly, look at the open water listings rather than this page.
What is a 10 km marathon swim like?
It is the Olympic open water distance and it is raced in a pack, with contact, drafting, and feeding from a pontoon. Water temperature rules decide whether wetsuits are allowed, and at this level they usually are not.
Which events are listed?
Three, all over 10 km: the Pan Pacific Championships in Los Angeles on 10 August 2026, the Junior World Championships in Santa Fe, Argentina on 3 September 2026, and the World Cup in Cancun on 6 November 2026. Santa Fe is age-restricted.