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Swim & Paddle the South River

Date
October 4, 2026
Distance
Swim Solo Pod- Swim All 5 Miles · Swim Relay Pod- Take Turns Swim/Paddle · Paddle

From the Organizer

This 5 Mile event celebrates the awesomeness of outdoor recreation on the South River and supports the efforts of Arundel Rivers Federation! We are a gathering of novice and experienced swimmers & paddlers celebrating the efforts of these organizations and the impact they have on inclusive water access and sustainable rivers. Each participant is required to fundraise at least $100 in addition to their registration fee. The tools to help you reach the fundraising goal will be provided. Fundraisers who exceed $500 will have their registration fee reimbursed. . 

 

Swimmers participate as pods. A pod is 2-4 similarly speeded swimmers. Every pod has a support boat with them. The Solo Swim All 5 Miles option allows for the pod to swim the entire distance with a dedicated paddler. Solo Pods may bring their own paddler, or request that option at check out.  The Take a Turn Swim/Paddle pod functions as a relay, taking turns paddling. Swimmers may register with friends as a fully formed pod, or may register individually into one of our paced pods. 

No speed pressures or equipment restrictions.  Simply invigorating open water adventure with the friends you’ve got or the ones you’ll make! October is a perfect time of year to enjoy swimming & paddling the South River! The cool water temps (Mid – High 60s) and picturesque scenic shorelines collaborate for unforgettable memories!  Our untimed events are executed with participant safety and enjoyment as top priorities.  We work with community partners to bring experiences that connect you to the sports we love and to outdoor recreation in meaningful ways. 

 

Register today to help us support this amazing local foundation! 

 

Distances & Pricing

Swim Solo Pod- Swim All 5 Miles7:30 AMRegister →
Swim Relay Pod- Take Turns Swim/Paddle7:30 AMRegister →
Paddle8 AMRegister →

Race Location

About This Sport

From Endurance Grid's Founder

Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.

Swimming events drop you into something that demands navigation, feel, and focus all at once. It's a sport that rewards the quietly competitive — the ones who do the work in the water before anyone's watching.

Open Water Swimming

Open water races from 1 mile to marathon distance. Just you, the water, and whatever you've got left.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Swim & Paddle the South River?
Swim & Paddle the South River is a swimming event held in Riva, MD. Learn more about the different endurance sports here.
When and where is the Swim & Paddle the South River?
Sunday, October 4, 2026 in Riva, MD at 100 Orchard Road, Riva, MD. Check the official event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
How do I register for the Swim & Paddle the South River?
Registration is handled through their official registration page. Confirm pricing, distances available, and sign up there.

Swim & Paddle the South River

Oct 4, 2026

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