Are wetsuits allowed?

Yes. Wetsuited swimmers are very welcome at the Lee Swim. On average, to date, about 35% of swimmers wear wetsuits. The Organising Committee is very committed to encouraging as broad a participation as possible. Age group prizes are awarded and the Denis O'Brien perpetual trophy is awarded for the best performance by a masters (over 25) swimmer in the wetsuit category.

Do I need to pre-qualify?

No. There is no requirement to do qualifying races or swims. As part of the registration proceess, however, you will be asked to certify that, on the day of the Swim, your level of fitness will allow you to complete the 2,000m course in less than 1 hour and 15 minutes. The time limit is necessary for safety reasons. You are asked to be conscientious in this matter. If your level of fitness is not adequate on the day, you may place an unnecessary demand on the safety resources, and may compromise your own safety and that of your fellow participants.

Is Handicapping used?

No. The event is run under FINA’s Masters Swimming Rules and prizes are awarded for 1st, 2nd & 3rd places for both men and women in the following age groups (non-wetsuit only): 12 to 17 years, 18 to 24, 25 to 29, 30 to 34, 35 to 39, etc (ie, in five-year increments as high as necessary to accommodate all entries). For wetsuited swimmers the following age groups will apply: 12 to 24 years, 25 to 34, 35 to 44, 45 to 54, 55 to 64 and 65 years and older.
Age on 31st December of the year of the Swim determines age group.

Are there restrictions on the age of participants?

Yes. All participants must be 12 years or older on the day of the Swim. There is no upper age limit.