The Bonney Lake swim takes place in Lake Tapps on a rectangular, clockwise course marked by a red buoy at the start/finish. Athletes begin next to the dock in waist-deep water. Super-Sprint athletes will turn at the green buoys (the shortest loop). Sprint athletes will turn at the yellow buoys. Olympic athletes will swim to the far orange buoys for the full loop. After finishing your loop, head for the boat ramp — that's your path out of the water and into transition.

Swim Distances

• Super Sprint: 400m (approx. 1/4 mile)
• Sprint: 750m (approx. 1/2 mile)
• Olympic: 1500m (approx. 0.93 mile / 1.5K)

TIPS FOR NERVOUS SWIMMERS

• Study the course. Know where you'll start, turn, and exit before race morning.
• Swim in open water prior to race day — don't save your first open-water swim for race day.
• Attend Open Water Wednesdays at Lake Meridian throughout the summer to get comfortable in open water conditions.
• Attend organized training swims offered by a local swim or triathlon club, such as Raise the Bar!
• Wear a wetsuit. It will keep you warm, buoyant, and give you confidence.
• Start from the back. The start area is wide — there's no need to be in a tight pack. It's fine to wait 10–15 seconds for others to clear out.
• Slow down if you feel anxious. Bringing your heart rate down will help calm your nerves. Take deep, slow breaths.
• Stay calm and think positive. The lake is calm and there's nothing in the water to worry about — focus on your stroke and enjoy it.
• Use the water support personnel. You're welcome to hold onto a kayak for support (as long as you're not making forward progress while holding on).

We want you to cross the finish line, no matter what. If you're unable or unwilling to complete the swim, alert a kayaker or water support person — they'll help you back to shore, and you're welcome to continue onto the bike course from there.