Join us for the 7th Annual Crystal Lake AquathonSunday, July 28th, 2024 We are happy to bring back the Crystal Lake Aquathon for the 7th year (can you believe it???)! This annual event will be returning to the ideal confines of Three Oaks Recreational Center in Crystal Lake, IL. As the only aquathon in the state of Illinois, this race will offer 3 timed options. All proceeds from the race benefit Girls on the Run of Northwest Illinois!
Timed Races
- Sprint Distance (500m swim, 5k run)- Olympic Distance (1 mile swim, 10k run)- 2 Mile Swim
-1 Mile Swim. Please note the 1-mile swim does not include awards but is timed.The swim portion takes place in a modified quarry (swim around 3 islands!), and the run is on a combination of trail, sand, and pavement. Wet suits will be allowed if it is below 78 degrees (decision to be made by City of Crystal Lake staff based on water temperature).
Kids' RaceThe Kids' Race is perfect for anyone ages 7-12 that would like to try the Aquathon but needs a shorter distance. It includes a 250m swim and a 1 mile run. Swag is included, along with a swim cap. All Kids' Race participants will receive a finisher's medal however there are no awards. Lifeguards and a swim angel will be in the water with the swimmers for safety and encouragement. There is a relay option, so if your child wants to partner with a friend, it's a great way for them to compete together!
Adaptive Race
The Adaptive Race will be a one mile swim only. Swimmers will be allowed physical support from their own family/friends only for protection of the racers and volunteers and may use adaptive equipment in the water as needed.
Swim Duo with discounts for 2 racesJoin us for two open water swimming events that are offering you a 15% discount/event when you register for both! Crystal Lake Aquathon is Sunday, July 28 held at Three Oaks Recreation Area in Crystal Lake. A Long Swim for ALS is Sunday, August 11 held at Tower Lake in Winnetka in Lake Michigan.CLAquathon discount offers swim/run distances of: a 500 meter swim followed by a 5K run, OR a 1 mile swim with a 10K run OR for just swimmers, a 1 or 2 mile swims.A Long Swim Lake Michigan for ALS Research offers a variety of distances for swimmers: 750 meters, 1500 meters, 1.2 miles, 2.4 miles and 3.1 mile.Use the CLAquathon as a prep for the ALS. Or just come and support each of their causes.To learn more about A Long Swim, click HERE.To register for the Duo (the 15% discount will be applied automatically for the two races), click HERE

Course MapsStart Line
Swim Course MapKids Swim Course MapRun Course Map
Kids Run Course Map
Awards and CelebrationsAt the completion of the race, we will celebrate with a post-race party overlooking Three Oaks. Food and beverages will be provided. Food for participants only!! We will have an award ceremony this year!!! Awards will be given for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place for the sprint, Olympic, and 2-mile swim. There will be no awards for the kids, adaptive, relay races or 1 mile swim. Stay after to enjoy all that Three Oaks has to offer: swimming, sailboat and paddle board rentals, scuba diving, children's playground/splash park, volleyball, fishing, and fun in the sun!
Finisher Medals for all racers COMING SOON!
2024 Race Swag COMING SOON!
Packet Pick-UpPacket pick up will be occurring at the following three times:Friday 7/26 3:00pm - 6:00pm at Smith Physical Therapy and Running Academy (110 W. Woodstock Street - enter on the west/left side of the building where you will see a ramp and blue awning) *Please note, you will still be required to check-in on race day to receive your timing chip.
Saturday 7/27 9:00am-12:00pm at Smith Physical Therapy and Running Academy (110 W. Woodstock Street - enter on the west/left side of the building where you will see a ramp and blue awning) *Please note, you will still be required to check-in on race day to receive your timing chip.
Sunday, 7/28 6:00am-7:00am at Three Oaks Recreation Center (Race Site)
Other Notes:Wetsuits: Wetsuits are allowed if the water temperature is 78 or lower.Weather: In the event of inclement weather, the City of Crystal Lake’s Fire Department will be making the call to delay or cancel the race. At this time there is not a make-up date due to a shortage of lifeguards and there are no refunds.