How to enter

Event Website

At a glance

Sat, 28 Dec 2024

Glenelg Beach, Glenelg SA

Ocean Swim

1km & 2km

Around The Buoys

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Last held on Sat, 28 Dec 2024

Proclamation Classic Swim

Adelaide Masters

How to enter

Event Website

At a glance

Sat, 28 Dec 2024

Glenelg Beach, Glenelg SA

Ocean Swim

1km & 2km

Around The Buoys

Event Cancelled

2024 swim cancelled due to unsafe conditions

Why this event?

Traditional open water swims celebrating SA’s coastal history

There’s something special about swimming into history, and that’s exactly what the Proclamation Classic Swim offers. Held in the vibrant heart of Glenelg, this event honours South Australia’s Proclamation Day with a beachside swim celebration that’s steeped in heritage and big on good vibes.

Taking its name from the Governor’s Proclamation on 28 December 1836 that established the colony, the swim pays tribute to South Australia’s 180-year heritage, pitting swimmers’ skills and endurance against a historical constant: the beautiful waters of ‘the Bay’.

Part of the South Australian Open Water Swim Series, it’s a great opportunity for both locals and interstate visitors to experience Adelaide’s ocean swimming scene. With a 1km and a 2km swim on offer, you can go short and snappy or stretch out a bit more, all in clear, calm waters that finish close to the iconic Glenelg Jetty.

Expect community cheer, a dash of tradition, and the kind of event where everyone chats before and after their swim. It’s a classic in every sense of the word.

On the day

What's on offer

1km Ocean Swim

All swimmers will start in the water on the south side of the Glenelg Jetty before swimming south parallel to the beach for approximately 400m; at the first buoy, turn right and swim 50m to the west (out to sea); then at the second buoy, turn right again and swim parallel to the beach back towards the jetty; at the third buoy turn right towards the shore before swimming straight into shore and cross the finish line.

18 Years Old

2km Ocean Swim

Swimmers will swim the same exact course as the 1km starting on the south side of the Glenelg Jetty before swimming along the shore and turning at the first buoy and swimming; west out to sea before turning the second buoy before turning and swimming back towards the jetty before turning right at the third buoy. At the fourth buoy which is closest to the beach, swimmers will turn and repeat the course for a second time, before swimming into the beach at the end of the second circuit to finish.

18 Years Old

What to expect in the water

Glenelg Beach is Adelaide’s most iconic shoreline; bustling with life, backed by palm trees and cafés, and perfectly set up for ocean swimmers. The swim takes place in typically flat water with gentle conditions, thanks to the protection of the bay.

Water temps in late December usually hover around 21–23°C, and early morning conditions are usually ideal. It’s a fast, fair course well-suited to swimmers of all paces, whether you’re easing back into the ocean or want to add a scenic South Australian swim to your summer tally.

Swimmer essentials

Wetsuits are optional. Water temps in December are usually swimmer-friendly, and the calm bay conditions mean a smooth swim for all levels. All swimmers must be 18 or older, and safety support is provided by local surf lifesaving teams.

If you’re new to ocean swimming, this is one of the best places to start.

Competition rules

General Rules

A spirit of friendly competition is expected throughout the race.
Any unsportsmanlike conduct will be grounds for immediate disqualification.
Race Officials may instruct a competitor to leave the race if: (a) they judge the competitor to be physically incapable of continuing without the risk of injury to themselves or others, or (b) the competitor has exceeded the set time limit or the Race Officials judge that the competitor is unlikely to complete the race within the set time limit.
Decisions of the Race Officials are final and are not subject to appeal.
Water cover personnel are considered as Race Officials.
The Code of Behaviour of the SA Branch of Masters Swimming Australia (available at aussi.sa.org) applies to all persons involved with the race, including swimmers, volunteers and officials.

Race Rules

Masters Swimming Australia’s Masters Swimming Rules, Masters Open Water Swim Rules and Masters Swimwear Rules, available at mastersswimming.org.au, apply.

No extraneous aids are allowed. Goggles are allowed and recommended.
Swimmers not wearing FINA-approved swimwear will not be eligible for awards or prizes, but may swim in the race and receive a race place and time. Wetsuits and suits with zippers are not FINA-approved, nor are swimsuits that cover the neck, extend past the shoulder or extend below the ankle. Rash vests are allowed provided they do not provide compression or buoyancy.
Watches and heavy jewellery are not permitted.
An official swim cap will be issued to each swimmer at registration. Swimmers must wear their cap throughout the race.
Swimmers must swim the course as described.
Swimmers who cross the starting line before the sounding device is heard may be liable to disqualification.
Competitors asked to withdraw must do so as soon as directed.

Resources

Masters Swimming Australia Open Water Swimming Rules 2022

MSSA Open Water Swim Events Event Management Plan 2023

Time Limit

2km race: Time limit is 1 hour (11:00 am).

The Race Officials reserve the right to reduce this time limit if weather conditions on the day warrant it.

Refund Policy

If the event is cancelled prior to the day of the event, a refund will be provided to swimmers and swimmers will be notified via the Adelaide Masters Facebook Page.

The full refund policy is available to view here.

The run sheet

8:30 am – Registration
9:30 am – Official race briefing
9:58 am – Two minute whistle is given advising 2 km swimmers to enter the water
10:00 am – 2km swim start
10:03 am – Two minute whistle is given advising 1km swimmers to enter the water
10:05 am – 1km swim start
11:00 am – Swims finished
11:30 am – Presentations at the GSLS club rooms

Getting there & around

Glenelg is easily accessible by tram from the Adelaide CBD, making it one of the most convenient beach venues in the country. There’s plenty of parking near the beach, and a short stroll takes you straight to the sand.

Amenities are close by, including changerooms, showers, and beachfront cafés.

Glenelg Beach

Glenelg SA, Australia

While you're there

Glenelg is a summer hotspot for good reason. After your swim, stroll Jetty Road for a coffee or brunch; Zest, Cibo Espresso, and The Organik Store are all popular picks for a post-swim refuel. If you’re after something a bit more indulgent, head to Moseley Bar & Kitchen for a relaxed beachside bite or cool off with gelato from Bottega.

Take a walk along the esplanade, hop on the historic Glenelg tram for a scenic ride into the city, or simply stretch out on the sand and soak in the summer buzz. Families will love the nearby Glenelg Foreshore Playspace, and if you’re sticking around, the Bay Discovery Centre offers a fascinating glimpse into local history.

It’s a swim, a celebration, and a seaside escape all rolled into one. Come for the classic, stay for the sunshine.