About
Lake Burley Griffin defines this event: an end-to-end fresh open-water crossing using the lake as both the race course and a scenic tour. The 22nd Sri Chinmoy National Capital Swim takes place in waters bordered by Government House, Parliament House (old and new), the National Museum, National Library, National Gallery, and High Court, with surrounding reserves, parkland, beaches, and promenades. It offers the sense of a significant endurance challenge, alongside a communal day out for individual swimmers and relay teams navigating Canberra's notable lake.
The course is precisely measured and straightforward to follow, starting at the Scrivener Dam boom and proceeding to Weston Park west beach, then Yarralumla Point, Gallipoli Reach, and Grevillea Park beach. Solo swimmers must provide their own support in a kayak, canoe, or on water skis, contributing to the race's authentic open-water character: managing nutrition, navigation, transitions, and mental focus. A pleasant tradition concludes the event with a post-race brunch for swimmers and their support crews.