The sport of swimrun originated in the Swedish Archipelago, however an activity called "Jog and Dip" started in 1941 when Aberdyfi Outward Bound School was set up to train the Merchant Navy during World War II. Aberdyfi also became a training ground for a special troop of Army Commandos between 1942 and 1943.
To this day the Dyfi Estuary plays a big part in building resilience, teamwork and leadership skills in young people, through adventures in the wild with The Outward Bound Trust.
The Dyfi estuary is very special, now you can experience it in all it's glory.
4 knots is 7.41 km/h. Photo: Mike Alexander, April 2014.
THE COURSE There may be some changes.
Total: 20km
Swim total: 3.7km
Run total: 16.3km
Longest swim: 1.5km
Longest run: 7km
Number of swims: 4
Number of runs: 5
Height gain: 320m
Total distance is 20km with 18.5% swimming.
HOW IT PLAYS OUT
Run 1.2km
Swim 650m
Run 5.6km
Swim 750m
Run 2.2km
Swim 1.5km
Run 6.5km
Swim 800m
Run 0.8km
Aid stations at 7.45km, 12km, 17km
Estuary training, March 2018. Photo: Will Kilgore.
2021 RESULTS
The inaugural Dyfi Swimrun saw Kez Traynor win the Solo category, whilst Portia Rees Jones & Max Hallam won the Team category (Team Name: No Room For A Mascot).
Well done to all of the Dyfi Swimrun Pioneers, and thanks to HEAD Swimming for the fabulous prizes.
If you are not quite up to speed with swimrun, or just want an opportunity to practise, learn, try gear, and have some swimrun fun in a supportive environment then check out our swimrun workshop here.
ACCOMMODATION
Penhelig Hotel, Britannia Inn and The Dovey Inn offer Hotel accommodation within 5 minutes walking distance to registration. There's a number of B & B's, and Airbnb options in the village too.