Hervey Bay Pier 2 Pub

The WOW Challenge and Victorian Open Water Championships attracts first time open water swimmers to world and Olympic champions.

Held at Williamstown beach, only 10 minutes from Melbourne's CBD, the elite and public swim together in all events, with championship swimmers posting recognised FINA times.

The event is the only Victorian qualifier for the Rottnest swim.

Events include: Junior Dolphins Chase the Champs Kids 750m, 1.2km, 2.5km, 5km, 7.5km and 10km.

This is a festival of swimming, offering a retail activation zone, food and beverage from The Kiosk by d'Asporto, all in historical Williamstown offering cafes, bars and restaurants.

Swim courses

All events are deep water starts.

The Junior Dolphins Kids 750m is the lead swim being a 300m out, 150m across and 300m return.

The 2.5km, 5km, 7.5km and 10km swims are an 'L' shaped 2.5km loop.

The 1.2km is the final event cutting through the 2.5km course.

Wetsuits optional for all events.

While you're there

The WOW Challenge and Victorian Open Water Championships is a festival of swimming.

Enjoy fantastic food and coffee from The Kiosk by d'Asporto, get a free massage from Physio Health or wander through the retail zone.

Kez's Kitchen will be giving out free health food, buy a Christmas gift from Natatio Swimwear or Archie's footwear.

Travel and parking

Williamstown train station is a short 10 minute walk from the beach.

Ticketing parking is close to the venue and there is non-ticketed parking in surrounding streets.