Bill Keating, Jr. Great Ohio River Swim
Dive in
The Bill Keating, Jr. Great Ohio River Swim is a 900-meter open water swim held in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. Founded in 2007, it is the largest open water swim across the Ohio River and back. The swim launches from the Serpentine Wall and concludes at the Public Landing (435 E Mehring Way). Depending on river, stage, velocity, debris and other factors, the swim course may be adjusted to ensure safety.
Participants in the Great Ohio River Swim range from competitive athletes to recreational swimmers and bucket-listers. The river is closed to all motorized traffic during the swim. On-water safety is provided by The Coast Guard and local law enforcement. Safety paddlers in kayaks are dispersed throughout the course for additional support.
In 2017, the Swim was named in memory to Bill Keating, Jr. Learn more about Bill, his family, and his love of swimming.
the Great Ohio River Swim 2024 is scheduled for the morning of Sunday, August 25.
Pre-registration rates
Youth (12-17) - $30
Collegiate - $40
Adult - $50
On-site registration rates
All ages - $75.
In the event of unsafe water conditions, the reschedule date for the Great Ohio River Swim is Sunday, September 8.
Waves & Awards
The swim launches in two waves: competitive and recreational. You do not need to be in the competitive wave to place in your age/gender group, so select the wave that you’re most comfortable in.
Awards are given to first and second place male and female finishers according to the following age groups. Overall male and female winners are excluded from their age group category. We'll host the awards ceremony at the river after the final swimmer exits the water.
17 and under
18-24
25-34
35-44
45-54
55-64
65-69
70+
Sponsored by
Supporting Outdoors for All
The Great Ohio River Swim is a project of Adventure Crew, a 501-c(3) non-profit organization that provides outdoor recreation opportunities to city teens in 27 high schools in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Your participation in the Great Ohio River Swim supports Adventure Crew’s programs. They include a Swim Training Program that provides urban youth with access to high quality swim lessons, water safety instruction and lifeguard certification.
