This is a classical race of the modern era, with a history which is very nearly continuous, going back to the first time it was held 1922. The race has several idiosyncrasies. It starts in line with the Red House pub (which is white) and the distance is actually 1 1/4 miles. You swim downstream around the Crook of the Dee to finish at the suspension bridge. Swimming with the current all the way, course times vary considerably depending on the seasonal flow with the winning men’s time varying from 19:48 to 33:25 and the winning women's time from 23:57 to 35:08.
Water temperatures are typically 16 - 18 C. In 2010, the temperature was 20 C. The swim is with the current, but is not a “swoosh”.
The race offers the chance to hold the ancient "Dee Mile Champion” title for the fastest male and female swimmers who live within 5 miles of "The Cross" in the centre of Chester and swim in a traditional costume, without a wetsuit.
Recognition is also made for the fastest male and female:
We try to run the event as sustainably as we can and we appreciate your help with this. The event has been running for over 100 years and we are only its current custodians. As the event is run by Chester Triathlon Club, we aren't seeking to make a profit and we keep the cost to swimmers as low as possible.
