Policies
Refund Policy
Races and clinics are rain or shine unless we determine that race conditions are dangerous. This will be based on a prudent decision made on race weekend. If the race is canceled there will be no refunds. This position is consistent with governing body recommendations and with the protocol of sharing the risks associated with the sport of open water swimming. In the event of inclement weather, Acts of God, or unforeseen circumstances, we reserve the right to alter, cancel or eliminate any/all portions of the race. Each athlete must accept any such risk of their entry fee paid including other amenities paid for such as t-shirts, insurance, and online administrative fees. All fees collected are used to develop and produce the event, including all race supplies.
Wetsuit/Non-Wetsuit Policy
We will follow the USMS policies for non-wetsuit (Cat 1) and wetsuit (Cat 2) attire. You can see the description for Cat 1 and Cat 2 attire here, specifically under rules 303.7.2 and 303.7.3 (pages 72-73)
USMS Rules Regarding Wetsuits/Non-Wetsuits
Rules for Category I ("Non-Wetsuit") Swimwear for Open Water Events
A Swimwear shall include only a swimsuit, cap or caps (including caps made of neoprene when the water temperature is not greater than 78 degrees Fahrenheit), and goggles. Swim caps shall be defined as head gear conforming to a traditional swim cap design, may have a chin strap, and shall not extend to protect the neck and/or shoulders. Nose clips, ear
plugs, and wristwatches are also allowed.
B The swimmer shall wear only one swimsuit in one or two pieces. All swimsuits shall be made from textile materials and not contain clasps or zippers. For both men and women, the swimsuit shall not cover the neck and shall not extend past the shoulder nor below the ankles.
Rules for Category II ("Wetsuit") Swimwear for Open Water Events
A Swimwear that does not meet the requirements for category I swimwear shall be considered category II swimwear. Swimwear may include a swimsuit or wetsuit, cap or caps, goggles, armbands, and rash guards.
Nose clips, ear plugs, wristwatches, and grease are also allowed.
B Wetsuits, neoprene caps, or any other heat-retaining swimwear may be allowed at the discretion of the event host, but only when the water temperature is not greater than 25.5 degrees Celsius (78 degrees Fahrenheit).
C Swimmers are not permitted to wear or use any additional device or substance to help their speed, pace, navigation, buoyancy, or endurance during a swim (such as webbed gloves, fins, snorkels, audio players, etc.), except in designated events where all swimmers may use similar devices or substances. Medical identification items may be worn. Any kind of tape on the body is not permitted unless approved by the referee.
D At the discretion of the event host, except for national championship swims, swimmers may be permitted or required to wear a personal buoy for identification and safety. Requirements for buoys as well as rules for the use of these devices will be included in the event information. Permitted personal buoys, if not required under article 303.4.2E, will be considered category II swimwear for purposes of placement and scoring.
