About thurlestone Arch race
SAt 21st Aug 2027
Swim through the iconic arch
Run by Kate and Ivan Burton from Open Water Devon, take part in the first swim race through Thurlestone Arch in South Devon. Nestled between pristine beaches and rugged cliffs, Thurlestone Arch stands like a gateway in the bay. 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.
How does the event run?
You can register from 1.30pm in the event field, just opposite Thurlestone Golf Club (collect your hat, number, and merchandise if purchased).
You'll need to be on the beach ready to swim at least 15 mins before your race starts. We start from the right hand side of Leas Foot Sand, a 150m walk from the event car park.
The adult swimmers all set off together, sometimes split into 2 main packs.
The finish is on the left hand side of the beach. For swimmers doing multiple laps, you'll use the Australian Exit (you leave the water, run around a marker, and re-enter the water for your next lap).
The Golf Club are putting on food and drinks, so stick around and enjoy your post race dinner! Your post race food from the golf club is Lasagna, or Veggie Lasagna, with salad and garlic bread for £12.50 (price TBC for 2027)
Day Schedule
Registration Opens for all – 7am
Adult Race Brief - 8am
3, 2 and 1 mile Swimmers (Mass Start) – 8.15am
1 Mile Prize Giving's - 9.30am
2 Mile Prize Giving's – 10am
3 Mile Prize Giving's -10.30am
Sweep of the course – 11.30am
Sun down - 9.30pm
Please note due to the earlier timings, we are not running kids races at the 2027 event - we apologise and aim to bring them back in 2028.
Golf Club Food Available from lunchtime
Our back up date is Sat 11th Sept - if August's race is cancelled everyone will automatically move to this date.
Please see the FAQ's here for lots of info
Who runs The Thurlestone Arch 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!
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!