This is the 14th year the River Arun Swim has taken place and another unique chance to swim over the classic Ironman distance of 3.8km from Ford to Littlehampton. Fast times are guaranteed, just ask 2021 competitors, so many PB’s and swimmers under the hour! WETSUITS ARE COMPULSORY.
The swim has become very popular over the years, with many swimmers making an annual pilgrimage to West Sussex. You’re guaranteed to have a fun day with fellow swimmers; all ages and abilities from 13yrs to 80+ are welcome.
The River Arun has the second fastest tidal river in the UK and stretches as far north as Horsham and down to the sea at Littlehampton in West Sussex. Swimmers are taken by coach to the start point at Ford Marina and then make their way on mass to finish at the RNLI in Littlehampton. Safety is our uppermost priority and we’ll have our usual REP crew including the Harbour Master’s launch, Maritime Volunteers, safety RIBS, kayaks and Sussex Search & Rescue spotters on the river bank.
The start will be just after high tide at Ford (10:15hrs) during the 30 minute period of slack water as the tide starts to ebb away back to the sea. 2022 has a neap tide which may mean swim times are slightly slower than when we usually swim (spring tide). Nevertheless, it’ll still be quick! There is NO REGISTRATION for 2022. The RNLI Station in Surrey Street, Littlehampton (BN17 3BL), is the location for the finish on the quay by the Harbour Lights Cafe. Parking is at Coastguard Road (BN17 5LH), which is close to Harbour Park Amusements and only a short walk to the RNLI.
The start time is approx. 10:15hrs from Ford Marina. Coaches will leave Banjo Road, Littlehampton at 0900hrs to take competitors to the holding point at Ford Church.
All competitors will receive free unlimited race photographs from Sussex Sport Photography. Don’t forget we’ll be supporting the RNLI and other local charities during this event and making a donation to them.

Coach trip to start

Holding Point – Ford Church

River Arun Swim Walk Down

Mass start

Finished

River Arun Swim Finish Ramp
Testimonials:
“Brilliant event and really enjoyed it thank you”

ENTRY: £38
RACE INFORMATION
Race Information 2021 (2022 info coming soon)
PARKING GUIDE 2021
There is NO REGISTRATION this year. Instead, race packs containing a coloured swim cap and numbered kit bag will be posted out the week before the event. This alleviates long queues forming at the RNLI. Please leave plenty of time to park as the town and quay may be busy – there are numerous car parks in and around the town. We suggest you park at Coastguard Road, BN17 5LH, which is close to Harbour Park Amusements This is more or less next to Banjo Road which is where the coaches leave for the start, so an ideal location. Seaside cafes and toilets are also at this location.
MAPS
3.8km SWIM COURSE
COURSE AND PARKING GUIDE OVERVIEW
PAST RESULTS
River Arun 3.8km Swim 2019
River Arun 3.8km Swim 2018
River Arun 3.8km Swim 2017
River Arun 3.8km Swim 2016
River Arun 3.8km Swim 2015
River Arun 3.8km Swim 2014
River Arun 3.8km Swim 2013
River Arun 3.8km Swim 2012
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