Swim Series History
The Endurance Swims were introduced to give Nelson swimmers the chance to tackle longer distances beyond the Thursday Night tradition. Courses vary between Tahunanui Beach and the Nelson Yacht Club, with the annual Eyebright Mile (2km) linking back to the original Eyebright Swims first held in 1987.
Rylock Windows & Doors are proud sponsors of the Endurance Series, supporting swimmers who want to push further and go longer.
Swimmer Requirements
To take part, participants should be confident swimming 500m front crawl in open water while maintaining forward progress. The race director has the final say on this requirement.
Refund policy
Please note: The Nelson Triathlon Club has a NO REFUND policy on club events.
Locations
- Nelson Yacht Club – Wakefield Quay, Nelson, 7010
- Tahunanui Beach – Tahunanui, Nelson, 7011
Endurance Swim Options
Each race offers a long course and a short course option:
- Long swims range from 2km to 5km
- Short swims are typically 600m to 1300m
Individual Races
- Race 1 – Opening Splash 2km swim, race starts at 8.00am November 22nd 2026 – 2km swim from Tahunanui Beach to the yacht club ramp, with a 600m short option.
- Race 2 – Eyebright Mile 2km swim, race starts 6.45am Sunday December 20th, 2026 – Traditional 2km race from the yacht club ramp to Tahunanui, with a 1300m short option.
- NEW Race 3 – 3km relay swim, race starts 8.00am Sunday February 14th, 2027 – Swim three 1km laps, with the option to complete the full 3km individually or share the distance as a team.
- Race 4 – Rylock Windows & Doors Ironman Challenge 3.8km swim, race starts 10.00am Sunday March 7th, 2027– 3.8km swim from Tahunanui Beach around Haulashore Island, with a 1300m short swim option.
- Race 5 – Rylock Windows & Doors Challenge 5km swim, race starts 9.00am Sunday March 21st, 2027 – 5km swim from Tahunanui Beach, with 2km short option.
Registration
- Competitors must register online no later than the night before their swim.
- Registration for the Endurance Series is separate from the Thursday Night Swims.
- You can register for the full series or for individual races.
Volunteer for Endurance Swims
The Endurance Swims are a team effort, and we welcome anyone who can help — even for just one race.
Roles we’re looking for:
- 🚣 Kayakers
- 🚤 Patrol boat crew
- 🩺 First aid support
- 📸 Photographers
- 📝 Check‑in and timing
- 🙌 General helpers
👉 Get in touch if you can help out — even one race makes a difference.
Sponsor
