17th Annual Alcatraz Invitational Swim

What is the water temperature?
The San Francisco Bay in September is typically around 60 to 62 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 17 degrees Celsius).
What time is the swim jump this year?
Swimmers will jump from the boat at 7:45 a.m. at Alcatraz Island, unless conditions that morning dictate a slightly different time
How can I keep warm in colder water?
To help retain body heat and prevent swimmers ear infections, South End swimmers usually wear a thermal cap (or two) and earplugs.
How do I train for this swim?
The Alcatraz invitational Race Director (El Sharko) will be sending out regular emails regarding training tips, nutrition, acclimatization and suggested swim gear and answer questions regarding the swim.
What is your refund policy?
We refund $125 of the swim fee up to 70 days prior to the event. For refunds, e-mail by June 30, 2012 with your mailing address and we will send you a check for $125 approximately 2 weeks after the swim. We do not offer refunds or credits against future swims if the swim is cancelled due to weather.
Do you allow race-day registration?
We will open some spots on race-day and will have limited race-day registrations, but there is no guarantee as to the number of spots available. To ensure your entrance in the Alcatraz Invitational register online at Active.com.
Can I purchase a spectator pass to ride on a spectator boat on the day of the event?
Yes, if space is available we will be selling spectator passes. They may also be purchased in advance via Active.com.
How do I get a brunch ticket?
When you check in for the swim you will receive your swimmers tote bag, timing chip, swim cap, and a wrist bracelet for each food ticket purchased as well as any t-shirts you have purchased in advance.
Can I buy a brunch ticket at the event?
Yes, as soon as the swimmers leave for the boat we will begin selling food tickets for $15.
How can I change my swim division?
E-mail prior to the swim, or we can do it when you check in for the event on the day of the swim.
Is there a cut-off time for the swim?
Generally 2 hours is the maximum, but we take each swimmer’s situation into consideration and encourage every swimmer to finish.
Are swim fins allowed in the swim?
No, unless you are a swimmer with a disability and have permission from the Race Director.
If I have a disability can I still swim in your event?
We encourage everyone to swim. We can make adjustments to a person’s specific needs if we know what is needed. Just email with your request.
Do you know where I can rent a wet suit?
Sports Basement rents Blue Seventy Reaction wetsuits for $25 for a week and the rental fee can be applied toward purchase within 90 days. Their Presidio store is closest to the club: 415-437-0100.
Can I bring my own kayak and help pilot the swim?
No, piloting a swim in the San Francisco bay is at times challenging and we use experienced club members for this function.
Will I receive an individual time for my swim?
Yes, the timing company we hired says each swimmer’s chip will activate as they leave the boat. In addition, if you would like to receive a SMS text message of your results please provide the information necessary when you register.
How do I find the results of my swim?
As soon as results are available they will be posted at several locations inside the boat house at the club and in front of the club at 500 Jefferson Street, adjacent to Aquatic Park. A link to results also will be posted on our event webpage www.south-end.org/invitational later that same day and will be e-mailed to all registered swimmers.
If I purchased a spectator pass, will I be allowed to ride on the boat with the swimmers?
Due to the large number of race entries this year, a special boat is being hired for all spectators. All swimmers will ride on the swim boat, and all spectators will ride on the spectator boat. The spectator boat will accompany the swim boat to the jump point at Alcatraz Island so that spectators can watch the start of the race.
If I am a spectator on the boat, will I get back to the finish line in time to see my swimmer finish?
If your swimmer can swim a mile in 25 minutes or less, then the answer is typically no. The boat will arrive back at the dock between 8:15 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. and it is about a 10-minute walk up Jefferson Street to the finish area at Aquatic Park.
Why am I not receiving the e-mails updating me on your event?
We send out 2 emails updating you on our swim prior to the event. These e-mails could be snagged in your e-mail spam filter. Please add support@active.com to your e-mail Safe List.
Can I ride my bike to the Invitational?
We will have some metal barricades placed near our swim bag area where people can lock up their bikes. We are not responsible for the security of the bikes left in this area.
Where are the restrooms located?
Port-a-Potties will be located at the west end of Jefferson Street, adjacent to the finish area at Aquatic Park, just west of the club.