The swimming organized for the first time in almost a century will collect funds for research on ALS and the swimming lessons for young people
WHAT: Swim in free water in the main river river stem
WHEN: September 21, 2025 | 7:00 am – 10:00 am
WEBSITE: Chicagoriverswim.org
CHICAGO,, August 7, 2025 / Prnewswire / – The City of Chicago Officially approved the swimming of the Chicago 2025 river, the first swimming in free water organized in the river in almost a century. Planned Sunday September 21The event will highlight the city’s environmental progress while collecting funds for ALS research in Northwest University Feinberg School Medicine and youth security education in poorly served communities.
“The return of swimming of the Chicago river marks a major victory for our city – a testimony of decades of hard work revitalizing our river”. said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. “I congratulate the organizers for their commitment to security and dedication to empowering young blacks and brown thanks to swimming education. This event is a celebration of Chicago Progress and a brighter and more inclusive future. “”
Five hundred qualified swimmers will participate in swimming of one or two miles along the main river stem, from the bridge on rue Dearborn.
The event is produced by non -profit A BathingFounded by world -class water swimmer Doug McConnell. “It’s more than just swimming – it’s a tribute to Chicago Roots and testimony of the power of perseverance, “ said McConnell. “After 13 years of dedicated collaboration, we are deeply grateful to the City of Chicago For its support and commitment to restore the beauty and vitality of the river. This event is proof of what can be achieved when a community meets with a shared vision. “”
In recent decades, the Chicago river has gone from a strongly polluted channel to a dynamic navigable track. Key advances include stronger environmental regulations, improved wastewater treatment and a reduction in sewer overflows by the metropolitan water restoration district. The quality of the water is now monitored in real time H2now ChicagoDirected by Innovation Hub Current. Improved conditions have encouraged the return of fish, birds and other aquatic lives. The investment in the Riverwalk has revitalized the river again in a cultural and recreational destination. Non -profit as Friends of the Chicago River have played an essential role in this transformation.
“Swimming in the Chicago-Calumet river system is more than for leisure,” said Margaret FrisbieExecutive director of friends of the Chicago River. “Water swimmers show the city, the region and the world that Chicago cares about its inhabitants, the environment and its water resources, and that Chicago is a leader in recognition of the considerable role that our rivers can play in public health and a resilient climate future. “”
CRS is also associated with USA Swimming foundation and will include 2020 Olympian Natalie HindsAn All-American and Olympic bronze medalist at 20 times.
Security remains absolute priority. The organizers collaborate with GriefTHE University of Illinois Chicago And Current On water quality tests, which will provide almost real data leading to and during the event. More than 100 members of the trained security personnel – including kayakers, paddleking and boats of boats – will monitor the course. Additional security measures include autonomous buoys, GPS monitoring systems and water synchronization. The American Coast Guard will close the river of all ships, and access to Riverwalk will be limited to the designated observation areas.
The CRS will only do if water and safety quality conditions meet rigorous standards. If the conditions are dangerous, the team is ready to delay or cancel swimming.
For more details on how to apply and more information, visit chicagoriverswim.org.
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Source a long swimming



