Open Water Swimming

Swimming in open water has a long and colourful history dating back as far as 36BC, when the Japanese organised the first open water races. The Romans held high-profile races in the Tiber, when thousands would crowd along the banks to watch and cheer. The Knights in the middle ages reputedly had to swim in full armour as one of their seven required agilities.

‘Jackson’s Dock – is an ideal facility with access for a range of water sports. We have been steadily developing awareness and profile of the area as a place to become actively involved in a range of water based sports. The inclusion of  open water swims and associated events adds to the growing number water based activities. Hartlepool Marina management have been supportive in the development of open water swimming at Hartlepool.

Jackson’s Wharf is an inviting centrally located bar and eatery that has kindly offered their location, fantastic hospitality and support. 

The Swim Course

A triangular marked course, swimming anti clockwise, marks are set at approx. Length of course is approximately 400m.

Session Times, Registration

May – September Tuesday Evenings

(Subject to water temp being 12 degrees Celsius or above)

Registration & Briefing: 1800

Session Begins: 1830 Session Ends: 1930

Swim Session Tickets: £5.00 Purchasable on the night

Wetsuit hire available

Meet Point:

Wednesday Evenings 18.00 at Jacksons Wharf, Jacksons Dock, The Highlights, Hartlepool Marina TS 24 OXN

Session Briefing Notes and Expectations

  • This is a wetsuit compulsory session (Wetsuits can be hired daily at the session for £10)
  • Swim caps MUST be worn as a safety aid for marshals to use to spot athletes
  • All athletes must sign the register and a liability waver before entering the water – all precautions have been taken but athletes enter at their own risk
  • Swimmers will be counted in and out of the water and ticked off a register, you MUST ensure you have informed the Lead Marshal if and when you exit the water
  • Change facilities are offered but no swimmers can enter the Jacksons wharf to use facilities in wet clothing or wetsuits
  • All athletes must be present at the safety briefing prior to the session at approx. 18.20
  • Anyone participating must be able to swim 400m unaided
  • Swimmers must stay on our swim course and not access any other part of the water sports area.
  • If any athlete struggles in the water, signal to water or land marshals by laying on back and waving hands in the air. Do not panic
  •  Water testing will be undertaken as periodically
  • Water temp will be tested on the day – No swimming below 12degrees Celsius
  •  All valuables must be locked in your car and are left at your own risk, but a locked tin held by the lead marshal will be available for car keys
  • If the air horn is blown at any point during the session, this is a safety warning and swimmers are required to exit the water
  • The air horn will also be used to mark the end of the session
  • Athletes aged under 18 are permitted to attend the session but must have a parent attending the session (as spectator or swimmer) and parents will be required to sign a disclaimer waver
  • Swimmers must ensure that they conduct themselves in a manner that compliments this venue if we are to continue using their facilities. Any poor behaviour / abusive language will not be tolerated.
  • Although the slipway will be carpeted, footwear is advised to the water’s edge; sandals, wet boots, crocs or flip-flops etc. are advised
  • Take care exiting onto the slip way (it can be slippery), use the carpet provided for stability.

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