The Cole Classic, one of the world’s most celebrated ocean swimming events, is making waves in 2025, not just in the water but also in the fight for a more sustainable future.

With a bold vision to become a leader in sustainable event practices, the race has partnered with environmental organisations and introduced impactful initiatives to inspire swimmers, spectators, and the broader community to take action for marine conservation.

A new challenge: Leading the charge for sustainability

With the ocean at the heart of its identity, the Cole Classic recognises the critical importance of protecting the very environment that makes the event possible.

“I’ve always believed in looking after our community, and that includes our environment. The growing concerns around the human impact on marine ecosystems, especially in areas like Cabbage Tree Bay, a protected marine reserve, inspired us to act,” said Cole Classic Race Director, John Thompson.

For 2025, the event aims to set a new standard for sustainability in sporting events, reducing its carbon footprint and encouraging eco-friendly practices among participants and spectators alike.

With goals like earning Surfrider Foundation’s “Friend of the Ocean” accreditation and achieving zero waste, the Cole Classic is proving that small actions can lead to big changes.

Building a Sustainable Future Through Partnerships

The journey toward a greener future starts with collaboration. The Cole Classic has partnered with leading environmental organisations, leveraging their expertise to create an event that leaves a positive environmental legacy.

Key environmental partners for 2025 include:

• Sydney Institute of Marine Science (SIMS): Driving cutting-edge research to protect and restore marine ecosystems.
• Seabin Foundation: Tackling marine pollution through innovative waste-capturing devices and promoting sustainable practices.
• Surfrider Foundation: Advocating for clean beaches and oceans through education, activism, and community initiatives.
• ORG: Providing advanced recycling solutions to manage event waste efficiently.
• Emu Parade: Encouraging communities to take responsibility for litter prevention and collection.

According to Jen Kyna of the Seabin Foundation, “The Cole Classic’s participants share a deep connection with the ocean, making this collaboration an ideal platform to raise awareness and inspire action. From encouraging reusable items to reducing plastic consumption, we aim to transform the Cole Classic into a blueprint for sustainable sporting events.”

Leading by example: Key sustainability initiatives

The Cole Classic 2025 introduces a suite of initiatives designed to reduce waste, promote recycling, and encourage sustainable practices. These actions reflect the event’s dedication to leading by example and inspiring others to follow.

Key initiatives for 2025 include:

• Plastic-free bag tags: Replacing 5,000 plastic bag tags with paper alternatives to significantly reduce single-use plastic waste.
• Recycling silicone swim caps: Offering a funded recycling service to ensure silicone caps are disposed of responsibly.
• Goggle and cap collection program: Collecting used goggles and caps for reuse in communities in Samoa and Lombok, giving old gear a second life.
• Biodegradable water cups: Using eco-friendly cups at hydration stations to cut down on non-biodegradable waste.
• Composting fruit scraps: Recycling post-race fruit scraps to minimise food waste and support sustainable practices.
• Promoting sustainable practices: Highlighting an environmental partner category to encourage other organisations to adopt eco-friendly measures.

Interactive booths from partners like the Seabin Foundation and Surfrider Foundation will engage participants and spectators on race day, offering insights into marine conservation and sustainable practices. Post-event beach clean-ups and upcycling initiatives are just the beginning of this impactful journey.

Educating and inspiring the community

The Cole Classic’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond race day. By leveraging partnerships to share knowledge and resources, the event empowers participants to adopt eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.

“We want this event to be a day where everyone brings their environmental A-game,” said Mr. Thompson. 

“When people see how easy and fulfilling it is to make sustainable choices, they’ll want to carry that mindset into their everyday lives.”

The Cole Classic is also empowering participants to contribute directly to ocean conservation through its fundraising platform. Competitors can raise funds for impactful organisations that align with the event’s sustainability mission, ensuring that the benefits of the event are felt far beyond the finish line.

A legacy of environmental responsibility

The Cole Classic’s vision for the next 5–10 years is clear: to become a shining example of sustainability in ocean swimming events.

Seabin Foundation’s message to swimmers is simple, says Ms Kyna: “Every stroke you take reminds us of the beauty and importance of our marine environments. By reducing single-use plastics and inspiring others to do the same, you play a vital role in protecting our oceans for future generations.” 

As the sun rises over the start line on race day, the Cole Classic will celebrate the resilience of its swimmers and their commitment to a healthier, cleaner ocean one stroke at a time. To all the swimmers participating in the Cole Classic 2025, enjoy and know you are making a difference to the environment and ocean we all love.