Racing At The USA National Open Water Championships

For athletes who will compete in the 2010 USA Swimming National Open Water Swimming 5K and 10K Championships in Marine Stadium in Long Beach, California in June, here are 10 tips:

1. Marine Stadium has a well-maintained infrastructure around it including parking lots, showers and a GPS-marked 1K course (buoy-to-buoy).

2. There are plenty of pools in the area and throughout Orange County within 30 minutes to train. This also includes Belmont Plaza which is a short 7-minute drive away.

3. Marine Stadium is a salt water venue as it is directly connected to the Pacific Ocean, but its salinity is low. The water almost tastes fresh, but it is not as clean as the Pacific Ocean because it doubles as a large boat marina.

4. The expected water temperature and the water chill factor can vary widely due to the winds and air temperature. Athletes can expect water temperatures to range from a low of 62°F (16.6°C) to a high of 68°F (20°C) during this time - which is a good preparation for the expected water temperature of the 2010 World Open Water Swimming Championships in Roberval, Quebec, Canada in July and the 2012 London Olympics 10K Marathon Swim.

5. Swimmers can practice at Marine Stadium, but morning training sessions are highly recommended. Marine Stadium is mostly empty throughout the year, especially in the early mornings. There may be an occasional rower, but rental kayaks are available nearby for coaches.

6. The 10K race at the 2010 Pan Pacific Swimming Championships and the 2010 USA Swimming National Open Water Swimming Select Camp will be held in the same venue.

The water is expected to be flat, bordering on glassy.

7. There are plenty of hotels of all price ranges available, especially in downtown Long Beach.

8. The race is sanctioned by USA Swimming and organized by Olympic champion Bob Seagren and his team at International City Racing.

9. The championships will double as the American qualifying race for the 2010 World Open Water Swimming Championships which should mean there will be great competition and exciting finishes.

The start and finish will be at a floating pontoon with standard electronic timing.

10. Disneyland is only 30 minutes away.

Photos courtesy of Super Kidz Photo with additional photos of previous races in the Marine Stadium venue here.

Copyright © 2009 by World Open Water Swimming Association