The Lake Como Swimming Race, also known as the Swimming Crossing of Lake Como, is an annual event that takes place on the last Monday of July. This thrilling 1,000-meter swim across the picturesque waters of Lake Como attracts swimmers from around the world, offering them a chance to experience the beauty and challenge of this iconic Italian lake.
Event Details
The Lake Como Swimming Race is a highly anticipated event that draws swimmers of all skill levels. Here are the key details about this exciting competition:
Date and Location
- Date: Last Monday of July
- Location: From Torno to Moltrasio, Lake Como, Italy
Distance and Registration
- Distance: 1,000 meters
- Registration:
- Opens on July 19 at 9:00 pm
- Meeting at 6:00 pm at the Canottieri headquarters in Moltrasio for registration validation
Start Time and Safety
- Start Time: 8:00 pm
- Safety:
- Supervised by rescue workers with canoes, rubber dinghies, and divers
- Participants are given an inflatable safety buoy to wear during the swim
Equipment and Parking
- Equipment: No restrictions; participants can use wetsuits, fins, boards, or mats
- Parking: Limited parking; car-sharing and small cars recommended
Post-Swim Celebration
- Post-Swim: Dinner available in Piazza San Rocco with a specially priced menu.
Other Swimming Events on Lake Como
While the Lake Como Swimming Race is the main attraction, there are other exciting swimming events that take place on the lake throughout the year:
Gran Fondo Lake Como
- Event: A 15-kilometer open water swimming event
- Location: From Lierna to Dervio
- Timing: Typically held in August
Lake Como Triathlon
- Event: A triathlon featuring a 0.9-mile open water swim, a 12.6-mile mountain bike ride, and a 7.7-mile trail run
- Location: Lake Como
Water Conditions
Lake Como is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal location for open water swimming events. Here’s a closer look at the water conditions:
Water Temperature
- Average Summer Temperature: 23.2°C
- June: 21.3°C
- July: 24.1°C
- August: 24.2°C
- September: 20.4°C
Water Cleanliness
- Water Quality: Lake Como’s water is generally clean and safe for swimming, with most beaches classified as “excellent” for swimming.
Why Participate in the Lake Como Swimming Race?
The Lake Como Swimming Race offers participants a unique and unforgettable experience. Here are some of the reasons why this event is so popular among swimmers:
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Stunning Scenery: Surrounded by the majestic Alps and picturesque villages, the Lake Como Swimming Race takes place in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.
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Challenging Distance: The 1,000-meter swim across the lake is a challenging distance that tests the endurance and skill of the participants.
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Safety and Support: The event is well-organized and supervised, with rescue workers and safety equipment in place to ensure the safety of all swimmers.
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Camaraderie and Celebration: The post-swim dinner and celebration in Piazza San Rocco provide an opportunity for swimmers to connect with fellow participants and enjoy the local cuisine and culture.
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Unique Experience: The Lake Como Swimming Race offers a truly unique and memorable experience for swimmers, allowing them to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of this iconic Italian lake.
Whether you’re a seasoned open water swimmer or a newcomer to the sport, the Lake Como Swimming Race is an event that should be on your bucket list. With its stunning scenery, challenging distance, and welcoming community, this event is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who participate.
References
- http://www.lakecomotri.com/display.asp?page=details
- https://mylakecomo.co/en/events/swimming-crossing-of-lake-como/
- https://comocompanion.com/2024/04/28/swimming-in-lake-como-2024/
- http://www.lakecomotri.com
- https://www.openwaterswimming.com/upcoming-events/gran-fondo-lake-como-2021/