Swimmers and 'Mermaids' to Circle Key West During 12.5-Mile Race June 17
May 02, 2023 • KW Tourist
The College of the Florida Keys’ Swim Around Key West is an annual 12.5-mile open-water swimming race in both the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean waters, taking place on June 17th. Entrants can register as solo competitors or in relay teams of two to six swimmers with or without fins, or even with monofins or mermaid tails. The 12.5-mile clockwise route around Key West takes participants past island landmarks and is open to all swimmers. Participants are to vie for awards in age categories ranging from 12 and under to 70 and over. Swimmers who prefer shorter challenges can participate in 800-yard, 1-mile, 2-mile and 6.2-mile (10k) competitions in the Atlantic waters off Higgs Beach. Participants must provide a support crew and kayak or boat to accompany them around the island, and lifeguards and kayaks will be positioned throughout the course for safety. The entry fee ranges from $40 to $600 per person depending on the race and the number of team members, with discounts available for United States Masters Swimming and USA Swimming members.