Author: Michael Eastwood

  • A new IWSA World Cup stage in Latvia

    A new IWSA World Cup stage in Latvia

    We are thrilled to announce that the 18th Latvian Open Winter Swimming Championship has been included in the IWSA World Cup calendar. It will be held in picturesque Beberliņi Lake in Liepāja on November 21-22, 2025.

    This is a warm welcome from the club “VeloRonis” Liepāja for swimmers from around the globe. Beberliņi Lake is perfect for winter swimming, with its calm water and peaceful pine forest.

    Ready to compete?

    You can swim from 25m to 450m, or enter a team relay. There is a category for all ages. If you just want to try the cold water, join the non-timed swims.

    New to winter swimming? Join the free training sessions at the lake on Sundays from October 26th. Guest visitors will be offering tips on sport and nutrition.

    How to register:

    • Sign up at veloronis.lv until November 14th.
    • It is also possible to register at the “Līva Hotel” or by the lake during the event days.
    Register now

    Come for the swim, stay for the city

    A group of smiling people cheering during a winter swimming event.

    Source: VeloRonis

    Learn more about Liepāja, discover the city of wind and music through guided tours.

    See you there for a festival of winter swimming.

  • Winter swimming season 2025 starts in Argentina

    Winter swimming season 2025 starts in Argentina

    From August 4 to 10, 2025, winter swimmers from around the globe will have a chance to visit this stunning location, known for its breathtaking Patagonian landscapes and glacial waters. You will have the chance to compete in the opening event of season 2025 – 2026 and the first stage of the Winter Swimming World Cup.

    Participants will not only challenge themselves in the cold waters but also have the opportunity to explore one of Argentina’s most beautiful regions. Whether you are a seasoned winter swimmer or a newcomer looking to test your limits, this event promises an unforgettable experience filled with camaraderie, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.

    Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of the Winter Swimming World Cup. Registration is open until June 30, 2025, so secure your spot today. Join us in El Calafate for an event that celebrates the spirit of winter swimming and the stunning beauty of Patagonia.

    Register for an unforgettable winter swimming adventure

    Secure your spot
  • We’ve partnered with dryrobe®

    We’ve partnered with dryrobe®

    We’re excited to announce a partnership with dryrobe®, a brand known for its high-performance outdoor change robes designed to keep swimmers warm in extreme conditions. This collaboration marks an important step in supporting enthusiasts of winter swimming.

    Our partnership will sponsor all 2025 and 2026 events, including the 2025 IWSA World Cup and the Winter Swimming World Championship 2026 (WSWC). 

    Fun fact.

    WSWC 2024 set a new record of participants (1405). We’ll do our best to set a new one in Oulu.

    With our 20th anniversary in 2026, and WSWC returning to Oulu, Finland, we’re glad to have partnered with dryrobe® in continuation of our previous collaboration during the 2024 Winter Swimming World Championship, that was hosted in Tallinn, Estonia.

    “We’re very excited to extend our relationship with IWSA, who like us are passionate about promoting winter swimming and having a positive impact on its global community. Our sponsorship of last year’s IWSA Winter Swimming World Championships was a huge success, and we’re looking forward to working with the IWSA over the following two years on an expanded brief that will now account for all 2025 and 2026 IWSA organised events, including the 2026 Winter Swimming World Championships.”

    Gideon Bright, founder and CEO of dryrobe®

    A winter swimmers wearing a dryrobe robe in front of an open pool during a winter swimming event.

    “IWSA is very happy about the partnership with dryrobe®. In August when our last event took place at the Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate, Argentina, every swimmer was wearing a Dryrobe® Advance and it really helped them to manage and enjoy the extreme conditions. Our partnership, which includes the 2026 Winter Swimming World Championships in Oulu, is also very valuable as we will celebrate our 20th anniversary in the same city we were founded. It is very special that we will return to our original roots together with dryrobe®.”

    Mariia Yrjö-Koskinen, president of IWSA

    Make sure to follow dryrobe® on social media (@dryrobe) and visit their website.

  • 3 stages of the IWSA World Cup open for registration

    3 stages of the IWSA World Cup open for registration

    Maybe it’s magic, maybe it’s pure coincidence, but last three stages are open for registration. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or new to the cold waters, these events promise breathtaking locations, memories to make, and the true essence of winter swimming.

    World Cup Gdynia, Poland

    The first stop on this exciting journey is Gdynia, Poland, on February 8–9, 2025. Known for its vibrant seaside and Baltic waters, this event combines stunning views with the thrill of competition. Gdynia has long been a favourite among winter swimmers, offering both challenging races and a welcoming atmosphere. With distances ranging from short sprints to endurance swims, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to dive into the chilly waters and leave your mark in Gdynia.

    Register

    World Cup Morocco: Lake Bin El Ouidane

    Next up is a truly unique destination: Lake Bin El Ouidane in Morocco, happening February 14–16, 2025. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and pristine nature, the icy waters of this alpine lake will test your resilience while immersing you in Morocco’s cultural charm. It’s a rare opportunity to combine sport with exploration in one of the most remarkable locations on the World Cup circuit.

    Register

    World Cup Skellefteå, Sweden

    The final stage of this trio takes us to Skellefteå, Sweden, on February 21–23, 2025. A classic winter swimming destination, Skellefteå is famous for its serene icy waters and snow-covered landscapes. This event is perfect for swimmers seeking a true Nordic experience. Warm up by the fire with fellow competitors, take in the beauty of Sweden’s winter wonderland, and push your limits in the cold waters of the North.

    Register
    Female winter swimmers stroking through the water with their faces facing up mid-race.

    Join the action

    Each of these events offers not only competition but also a chance to connect with the global winter swimming community. Registration is open now—don’t wait, as spots fill quickly!

    Visit our Events page to secure your place in the cold waters of Gdynia, Morocco, and Skellefteå. See you on the starting line.

    Visit our events page

    Images author: gwsc.pl

  • Latvian Championship, Estonian shine

    Latvian Championship, Estonian shine

    The 17th Latvian Open Winter Swimming Championship took place on November 23rd in Liepaja’s Beberliņi recreation area. Over 130 swimmers from eight countries competed, with Estonia’s Rauno Parg and Triinu Pall stealing the spotlight, winning most races up to 100 meters.

    Small in number, strong in performance

    Rauno Parg from Tallinn claimed multiple wins, including the 100m breaststroke in 1:26 and the 50m freestyle in 26 seconds. Similarly, Triinu Pall from Tartu dominated the women’s races, winning nearly all short distances.

    More action from Latvians

    Latvia also celebrated successes. Jānis Buna completed the 450m race in 8:16, while Gunta Ostrovska finished as the only female in the same distance at 12:59. The relay race victory went to Liepaja’s “Veloronis Profi” team, finishing in 1:31.

    To summarise

    The event included team races, local artisan markets, saunas, and sponsor prizes, ensuring a memorable day for participants and spectators alike. Organized by “VeloRonis,” this championship brought excitement and community spirit to winter swimming. Learn more at veloronis.lv.

    Original article published on veloronis.lv, images by Edgars Pohevičs.