Swim the Lake Festival
01 Jul 2026
Welcome to the 'Swim the Lake' Festival - Weds 1st July 2026 - 7pm start.
The event is organised by Mid-Sussex Triathlon Club and Sussex Search & Rescue. The Aquathlon is run under the British Triathlon safety guidelines.
VENUE:
Ardingly Reservoir, Ardingly RH17 6SQ
START TIME:
Arrival from 5:30pm onwards, with the start time from 7pm. Registration closes 6:30pm SHARP.
Wetsuits
If the water temperature is 16C or above, wetsuits are optional for the swim-only events. If you choose to swim without a wetsuit, a tow float is compulsory.
Aquathlon – BTF Rules
Wetsuits are optional between 15.9C - 22C. Wetsuits are not allowed above 22C for competitors under 59 years, and above 24.6C for competitors aged 60+.
Under 18 Years
Competitors under 18 years must be accompanied by a responsible adult who must remain on site during the event.
The triangular swim course is marked with large yellow buoys:
- 3km Swim: 4 laps, Minimum Age 18 Years
- 1.5km Swim: 2 laps, Minimum Age 15 years
- 750m Swim: 1 lap, Minimum Age 15 Years
- Aquathlon: Swim 750m / Run 5km, Minimum Age 17 Years
The Aquathlon consists of one swim lap (750m), transition, and then 2 run laps along the side of the lake (5km total).
British Triathlon Race Pass (Aquathlon only): £8.00. If you are not a member of British Triathlon, this fee is added when entering via Entry Central. Swim-only events do not require a Race Pass fee.
Support craft and lifeguards will be on duty during the swim.
The Aquathlon run course & 5km fun run is 2 laps of 2.5km, mostly on track.
Online entries are open until 10am on race day, unless races fill up beforehand. Entries on the day are NOT available.
Facilities: Toilets are available, but no changing or shower facilities.
Parking: Please carshare where possible. Parking is available at the Reservoir with overflow at Ardingly College. Park responsibly and do not block the entry road.