_ The 2018 Sebago Challenge:

The Sebago Challenge is an Annual Open Water Race hosted by the Westbrook Seals Swim Team. This year the Sebago Challenge will be held at Saint Joseph's College in Standish. We are open to swimmers of all ages and offer the following distances: 1K, 2.5K, 5K, and 10K. 

Eligibility:  Athletes must be registered with either USA Swimming or US Master Swimming to be eligible.  A one-day registration with USA Swimming may be purchased on the for use on the day of the meet. The form can be found in this registration and mailed with payment to Westbrook Seals prior to the race or submitted the day of the race.  Swimmers already registered with USA Swimming or US Masters Swimming must include their member ID number during registration.

The Course: Please refer to the map of the course layout on our website: www.sebago-challenge.org . The Start and Finish will take place in the water at the same location. The course will be clearly marked by buoys and described in detail during the mandatory briefing session. No swimmer escort craft will be allowed. Official safety boats, kayakers, and lifeguards will monitor the course at all times.

Safety:  Safety will be of paramount consideration during this competition.  Safety provisions contained in the USA Swimming Guidelines shall be followed and enforced.  Event kayakers, lifeguards, and safety craft will be located on the course and prepared to administer aid if necessary.  Kayakers and lifeguards’ instructions to swimmers MUST be followed. Emergency medical personnel and first-aid will be available on-site. Swimmers must also comply with regulations for trimmed fingernails and toenails, as outlined by USA Swimming.

Timing and Results:  Electronic chip timing will be used for this race. Backup timing will be conducted manually with stop watches.  Live results will be made available on the internet and it will be posted electronically in the finish area. At the conclusion of the race  results will be available on site and will be posted on the race website. Local newspapers will also be provided with results.

Swimwear:  All swimwear must meet the requirements of USA Swimming/US Masters Swimming.  http://www.usms.org/rules/part3.pdf Swimsuits for both men and women shall not cover the neck, extend past the shoulder, nor extend below the ankle.  Please review the list of FINA approved OW (open water) swimwear posted on http://www.fina.org/content/fina-approved-swimwear A maximum of two (2) caps may be used.  Wet suits, flotation aids or any similar items, and anything used to maintain body heat, except reasonable application of body grease, are NOT allowed.  Meet swim caps provided at check-in MUST be worn by all competitors.

Pre-Race Meeting:  A mandatory pre-race safety and informational briefing will be given at 8:00 a.m. and will include course description, details of the safety policy, location of safety personnel, and Start/Finish procedures.  Swimmers should be ready to swim before the briefing begins.