About event
The iconic race is coming back!
Run by Kate and Ivan Burton from Open Water Devon. Burgh Island provides the stunning backdrop for this exhilarating race. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a novice participant, this event caters to all skill levels, offering a range of race categories to choose from, 8 years old and up. But it's not just about the race - we're hoping to raise money for some fantastic charities. Join us for a memorable day of sportsmanship, community, and mindful environmental practices at the Burgh Island Race.
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How does the event run?
You can register on the Island in front of the Pilchard Pub from 4pm (collect your hat, chip timer, and merchandise if purchased).
You'll need to be on the Island ready to swim at least 10 mins before your race starts. We start from the slipway on the island, you can swim across, get the tractor, or paddle/kayak across, and find registration outside the pub to the right.
The Nippers and Youth race is from the slipway, towards the Murray Rocks and back in a triangle.
The Racing Swimmers will be setting off next, everyone will wade into the water, and set off as a mass start once the whistle goes.
The Charity Swimmers set off last, walking down the slipway as a trickle start, a few swimmers at a time.
The Pilchard Inn are putting on a BBQ after the race, with quality burgers and hotdogs, so stick around and enjoy your post race dinner!
Day Schedule
Registration Opens for all - 4pm
Nippers and Youth Race Start - 5pm
Pilchard BBQ Available from 5.30pm
Prize giving (Nippers and Youth) -5.45pm
Race Swimmers (Mass Start) - 6.30pm
Charity Swimmers Start (Trickle Start)- 6.35pm
Prize giving (Race swimmers) - 8pm
Sun down - 9.30pm
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If the race is cancelled due to bad weather etc, everyone will be automatically moved onto our back up date which is on Saturday 6th July, same timings as above (starting at 4pm).
Please see the FAQ's here for lots of info
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Who runs The Burgh Island Race
Run by Kate and Ivan from Open Water Devon, both experienced sea swimmers, open water coaches and water enthusiasts are bringing the iconic race back to South Devon!
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Ivan holds a Surf Science and Tech BSc 1st Class Honors, and is a Senior Lifeguard trainer/assessor with the RNLI. He has grown up swimming in lakes and rivers in Wales, before travelling the world following the waves, and settling in Devon.
Kate has taught outdoor education for 15 years, and holds the BC White Water Level 3 training, 4* Sea and White Water leader, White Water Safety and Resuce, and Powerboating Level 2. She's Devon born and bred, and loves any aquatic adventure!
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