TCOWHM - 13.1 miles of swimming!
This event involves FIVE stages:
Stage I: 1 mile swim in Lake Harriet
Stage II: 2 mile swim in Lake Harriet
Stage III: 5k swim in Square Lake (separate registration; USMS National Championship)
Stage IV: 5 mile swim in Lake Minnetonka and
Stage V: 2 mile swim in Lake Minnetonka
Stage I & II - Lake Harriet is a picturesque lake in the fabulous "Chain of Lakes." The paved trail around the lake measures almost 2.99 miles and the stunning Band Shell hosts concerts all summer.
Stage III - "Square Lake has the best water quality of any lakes in the east metro" - DNR.
Stage IV - Known as the Minnetonka Challenge, this portion of the TCOWHM requires each participant to be escorted by a paddler (canoe/kayak). Swimming from Excelsior Beach to Wayzata Beach, this straight, five-mile stretch has challenged swimmers with wind, waves, and no turns! Occasionally, there have been a select few participants to cross Lake Minnetonka twice! This accomplishment inspired our 10-mile OWNC.
Stage V - Back to Lake Minnetonka for the final stage during the Wayzata's "JJ Hill Days". There are many events that weekend including street fair, water skiing show, ferry rides, dachshund races, box car races, and more!