Hundreds of swimmers will take to the Ohio River during the open-water Bill Keating Jr. Great Ohio River Swim on Sunday, Aug. 25.
Officially named after Keating — one of the first people to sign up for the inaugural event in 2007, who later lost a battle with brain cancer — the event is a fundraiser for local nonprofit Adventure Crew, which "connects city teens with nature."
“I started swimming in the inaugural Great Ohio River Swim alongside my father, and it soon became an annual tradition,” Caroline Keating, Bill's daughter and event chair, said in a press release. “He was deeply passionate about swimming, our city and empowering youth. The Bill Keating Jr. Great Ohio River Swim embodies his spirit, carrying forward his legacy. It's a joyful celebration of the Ohio River while also supporting Adventure Crew's mission, instilling a sense of adventure in city teens and nurturing their confidence."
Swimmers will push off from downtown's Serpentine Wall and make their way across the river to Kentucky and back — about half a mile.
There is also the opportunity to sign up as a "Double Dipper” — participants who will swim 2.5 miles downstream, then the traditional 900 meters across to Kentucky. Double Dippers are encouraged to raise $200 for Adventure Crew, and you must apply online here and be accepted to participate.
During the event, the river will be closed to motorized traffic. Safety jet skis, kayaks and boats will be in the water with the swimmers to offer any assistance if needed. Local first responders will also be at the river for support.
The event is limited to 250 participants. Event check-in opens at 7 a.m. Aug. 25 with mandatory safety instructions at 8 a.m. Tickets are $50 for adults, $40 for college students and $30 for youth. You can register here.
The swim will be rescheduled for Sept. 8 if river conditions are unfavorable.
The swim starts at the Serpentine Wall, Downtown. Find more information at greatohioriverswim.com.
