Over 100 International Swimmers set to make a splash at 2023 Race for the Conch

#TurksandCaicos, June 22, 2023 – The countdown has begun for the annual Turks & Caicos “Race for the Conch” Eco-SeaSwim set for Saturday June 24, 2023. As before, the now iconic international swim race will once more take place in the turquoise waters of Grace Bay with the start and finish in front of Rickie’s Flamingo Cafe. The event will feature three main races, the 2.4 mile, the 1 mile, and the 1/2 mile plus a 100 meter Children’s Swim for youngsters 10 and under.

Co-Founders and Race Directors Ben Stubenberg and Chloe Zimmermann say that based on current on-line sign-up the race should bring in at least 100 swimmers from the US and Canada, many returning year after year. In addition, the Race Directors expect about 35 TCI residents, including many outstanding local swimmers who took home half the conch trophies in 2022. Stubenberg said, “It is truly gratifying to see our local swimmers compete on such a high level and taking on top swimmers from abroad.”

Zimmermann added, “We very much look forward to seeing our swimmers from last year back in the water this year better than ever. And we welcome the new, up-and-coming young swimmers doing their first open water race.”

Started in 2010, the race has grown every year to become one of TCI’s top sporting events. In 2021, the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) nominated the “Race for the Conch” as one of the best swim’s in the world. The race is now a certified WOWSA event.

The Race Directors point out that this event could not take place without these generous sponsors: Ocean Club Resorts, Grace Bay Club, Royal West Indies Resort, Projetech, SurfSide Ocean Academy, Whole Health, Graef, Silver Palm Charters, Luxury Experiences, Hartling Group, Natural Trade Distribution, Finishing Touch, Marco Travel, and Caicu Naniki Vacation Adventures. Essential providers of donated services and products include: Red Cross, Big Blue, Stream2Sea Sunscreen, Paradise Photography, Visittci, Business Solutions, LMNT Electrolytes, Island Roasters Coffee, Kix Creations, TC Crystal Water, and  Blue Loos. The Race Directors also thank the Sports Commission, DECR, Marine Police, Provo Ambulance Service, and TCI Swim Federation for their valuable contribution along with the many volunteers.

The “Race for the Conch” Eco-SeaSwim is a TCI registered non-profit and donates proceeds to the Provo Children’s Home, TC Reef Fund, and The Hope Foundation for Autism Awareness TCI.

As before, local residents will receive a 50% discount off the full on-line price. Hard copy applications will be available at the swim clubs and from Race Directors. Or they can register on race day at least one hour before the event.

More information about the race, including start times for the events, can be found at www.ecoseaswim.com.

Photo Credit: Paradise Photography