THE EVENT

The 35-km-long swimming crossing from Ponza to San Felice Circeo takes place in a stretch of sea connecting the enchanting island of Ponza, famous for its crystal-clear waters and rock formations, to San Felice Circeo, known for its legends and breathtaking landscapes. This challenge unites two jewels of the Tyrrhenian Sea, offering swimmers a unique experience in a setting of extraordinary natural and historical beauty. The crossing can be done: single or in a relay. In relay mode, a maximum of 6 athletes per boat can participate. All athletes must respect the rules indicated in the "Participation Rules" and "Safety and Decisions" sections. Each participant will receive a range of services and benefits including the hire of a support boat complete with pilot and fuel for the duration of the crossing. In addition, additional safety boats and a first aid medical team will be provided to ensure safety at sea. The timing of the race will be done manually to ensure maximum accuracy. In addition, each participant will receive a certificate of participation and exclusive event gadgets. Presence of a Professional Photographer: A professional photographer will be present to capture the significant moments of the event. The cost of the relay crossing is divided among all participating athletes. A maximum of 2 companions can board the boat (athletes, physiotherapists, various guests...), the price for the companion is 100 euros per person. For reasons related to adverse weather and sea conditions, participants are invited to organize the trip 2 days in advance.

THE PROGRAM

The crossing will take place on June 15th, but for reasons related to adverse weather and sea conditions, participants are invited to organize their trip 2 days in advance. The participating athletes will be contacted by us the days before the event and we will inform you of any changes. Below is the program of the days involved:
13 June 2024 - Flexibility Day Monitoring weather conditions. Equipment preparation. Relaxation/exploration activities.
14 June 2024 - Readiness and Relaxation Continuous weather monitoring. Confirmation of travel plans. Final preparations for the race.
15 June 2024 - Race Day 08:00 Start of the race. 18:00 (maximum): Expected arrival.

PARTICIPATION RULES

Single crossing (1 athlete)

The athlete will not be allowed to board or lean on the boat during the crossing. The athlete will have a spot in the crew designated for their coach or assistant.

Relay crossing (from 2 to 6 athletes)

Each relay must elect a team member as the team captain. The succession in the sea of the components can be at the team's discretion and can be changed at any time. Each competitor must cover at least a portion of the crossing without any kind of limit. The change must take place at sea.

Meeting place

Participants are required to be ready and prepared to swim at the starting point Porto di Ponza at least 1h before the official starting time.

Useful Tips

• To prepare adequately for swimming in the pool and in open water for at least 60/70 minutes continuously.
• Have a light breakfast, rich in sugars and low in fats; do not drink alcohol before the race. Start moderately and find your breathing rhythm before pushing the pace.
• If in need of rescue in the water, signal to the nearest service vessels by keeping one arm stretched high.
• The organizers decline all responsibility for thefts or losses of valuable items, wallets, watches, clothes, etc.
• Each athlete/support person should prepare a thermal bag with necessary hydration and food for the crossing, considering that the organization will provide some light refreshments.
• It is advised to focus on liquids and light but energetic snacks. In addition to a towel and swimming gear, it is recommended to bring a sweatshirt, a spare T-shirt, and a windbreaker jacket.

Race Pack

• Swim Cap of the Event.
• Event Partners' Merchandise.
• Certificate of Participation.

Competition Regulations

Participation in the event implies full acceptance of the competition regulations, including FINA and FIN regulations. Participants therefore release Swimming Travel from any liability related to their participation in the event. Furthermore, each athlete consents to the use of their photographic and video images for promotional purposes related to the event. It is essential that each athlete is a member of a recognised federation such as FIN or FITRI. In the event that a participant is not already a member, Swimming Travel will provide membership through the sports promotion body Libertas. Full insurance cover is guaranteed for all participants for the duration of the event.

Judges and Timing

A jury service will be provided. The trial will have a manual timing service.

Rankings

All individual athletes who manage to finish the Cross-Country Race. The First Classified Relay winner edition 2024.

Security and Decisions

Swimming Travel, in collaboration with the relevant authorities, holds the full right to make decisions regarding the safety of the event. This includes the ability to cancel or suspend the event at any time for safety reasons. These decisions are final and binding on all participants. Decisions communicated through the crew to the coach and/or the relay captain regarding the end of the race are indisputable, and any non-compliance by the competitor(s) will result in the intervention of the designated authorities.

Results

The official results of the competition will be announced and published at www.swimmingtravel.com.

REGISTRATION METHODS

Registration Period: Registrations are open until March 31, 2024, or until the maximum number of participants (60 swimmers in total) is reached. It is crucial to act quickly to secure a spot in this prestigious crossing.
Website for Registration: To register, visit the website www.swimmingtravel.com. All necessary information and registration forms are easily accessible here.
Booking Fee and Balance: BOOKING FEE: 200 euros by March 31st. BALANCE: by May 5th. Payment can be made via bank transfer, or online platforms (PayPal/Stripe); the payment details are indicated in the registration form.

The crossing will be confirmed by mid-April.

There are no refund policies, it will be up to the waiving passenger to find a replacement for the crossing.