The District of Columbia Aquatics Club (DCAC), in partnership with the Potomac Riverkeeper Network (PRKN), is proud to bring back our annual open water swim event and fundraiser. The event will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at National Harbor and offer 2.5k and 5k open water swim options. Formerly known as DCAC’s “Swim for Life” event, we are pleased to continue DCAC’s longstanding history of hosting an open water swim event in our local waterways. 

We want you to come swim with us and help fundraise for two fantastic organizations! This event will support PRKN’s mission of protecting the right to clean water for all communities, as well as DCAC’s mission of promoting swimming for fitness, health, wellness, and competition for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.

The race will include both a 2.5K (one lap of course) and 5K (two laps of course) swim option. 

PRKN serves the community by conducting independent water-quality monitoring - as the organization has always done. We understand there are concerns related to the January 19 interceptor pipe spill releasing untreated sewage directly into the Potomac River. Currently, conditions are safe to conduct this swim event in National Harbor. PKRN will continue to monitor water quality monitoring will be conducted in the lead up to the event to ensure clean and safe conditions.

Swimmers either must be registered USMS members to participate, or complete a USMS one event form and pay the associated fee ($20).