FAQs
How many miles is the swim?
The swim is approximately 3 miles across the Hudson River (depending upon tides and currents). For those swimmers interested in completing a shorter route, a one-mile swim will be offered along the shores of Sleepy Hollow.
What time do swimmers have to “Check-In”?
Check-in is from 7:00am- 8:15am for the 3 mile swimmers and 8:30am-10am for the 1 mile swimmers.
Check-in will take place at Kingsland Point Park in Sleepy Hollow. Parking is available at the GM Parking Lot on Beekman Avenue. Please follow directions through Tarrytown as there is a Street Fair happening in Sleepy Hollow the same day as our event. There is no event day registration available. Registration closes Sept. 2nd
What time do kayakers have to “Check-In”?
Check-in is from 7:00am- 8:15am for the 3 mile kayakers and
9am-10am for the 1 mile kayakers. Parking is available ONLY for the kayakers at Kingsland Point Park on Palmer Avenue in Sleepy Hollow. Kayakers can register the day of the event but are encouraged to sign-up ahead of time. Please note, the kayakers for the 3 mile swim will be kayaking 6 miles (3 miles across starting in Sleepy Hollow and 3 miles back with the swimmers from Nyack).
What time do the swims start?
The 3 mile swim starts at 9:30am in Nyack. Swimmers will be bused over from Kingsland Point Park in Sleepy Hollow.
The 1 mile swim starts at 10:30am at Philipse Manor Beach Club in Sleepy Hollow. Swimmers will be bused to the start and will swim along the shore of Sleepy Hollow.
Will there be a safety meeting prior to the event?
Yes. The meeting will be held on Thursday evening September 9th at Sleepy Hollow High school, more info here:
Will there be an opening ceremony?
The opening ceremony will take place at Kingsland Point Park in Sleepy Hollow. Time TBD.
What is the temperature of the water?
Typically during early September, the temperature is between 72-74 degrees.
Do I need to wear a wetsuit?
It is not mandatory that you wear a wetsuit; we leave the choice of wearing one to your discretion.
Are children allowed to participate in the swim?
Yes. Many young people have applied and have been approved to participate in the Swim. There have been swimmers as young as 8 years old cross the river. Anyone under 18 years old must be accompanied to the swim with a parent or guardian and they are responsible for retrieving them.
Where do I go for “Check-In”?
All participants including swimmers, kayakers, and volunteers must “Check-In” at Kingsland Point Park in Sleepy Hollow. Check-in times TBA. Boaters will check in with our boat safety captain at a designated time and spot TBA.
What if I can’t complete the swim
You will have 3 hours to complete the 3 mile swim. There will be kayakers and boats in the water to assist swimmers. If need be, you will be brought back to the shore on one of these support vessels.
Is the water quality tested?
Yes. The Westchester County Health Dept. tests the water at the Matthiessen Park beach in Irvington once every two weeks beginning Memorial Day and ending Labor Day.
Is there a minimum pledge?
Yes. There are minimum pledge requirements. These minimum pledges must be met to participate in the event. Swimmers are required to raise $375 (in addition to the $25 registration fee) to be handed in either on or before the day of the swim. Kayakers are also encouraged to raise funds. If you do not raise your pledge minimum, your credit card will be charged.
Can I wear a snorkel?
No. Wearing a snorkel eliminates your ability to have a line of sight and to swim in a straight line.
Can I use flippers?
No. Flippers are not allowed
Should I bring my own swim cap?
Swim caps will be provided and MUST be worn at all times.
Will there be food and beverages served?
There will be a free breakfast and lunch served to all registered swim/kayak participants, as well as volunteers.
Will there be food available for purchase by spectators?
Yes. There will be food available for purchase by spectators.
Are there activities for the spectators?
Yes. There will be music, entertainment and activities which are family friendly, please bring the kids!
What do we do if it is inclement weather?
There is no rain date for the event. Please check weather reports and come prepared.
How do I prepare for the swim?
We will mail all registered participants training tips, as well as post them on our website These tips are provided by area swim coaches.
We have been granted special access to certain area pools for registered and approved swimmers to train. Once you have submitted your swim application and have been approved, you will be sent a swim participant card. Use this card in your starter kit to gain access to the participating pools.
I’d like to apply to kayak, do I need a kayak to particpate?
No. If you have your own kayak we encourage you to use it. Kayak rentals are also available through Hudson River Recreation, (914) 682-5135. Reserve early as the number of kayaks available for rent is limited.
I’d like to volunteer for this event, what should I do?
Great! The success of The Hudson River Swim For Life™ greatly relies on the participation of our many volunteers. Contact Diandra Kodl for details at (914) 949-0084, ext 8993 or by e-mail at diandra.kodl@lls.org. Are there volunteer opportunites for boaters? If interested in volunteering with your boat, please contact Jerry Greogry jgregory@doubletake.com
