Celebrating the 105^th swim!!

The Swim Thru Perth is Australia's oldest open water swim having first been held in 1912. Although there have been many changes to the race course and distance over the years, the race has always been held in January in the Swan River. Throughout the 109 year history of the event the race has only been interrupted by the two World Wars, a polio epidemic and COVID-19 in 2021.

W. H. Hawkins wins the Swim Thru Perth in 1927

Claremont Masters has been the proud Event Coordinators since 1985 and has seen the event grow steadily. From 50 swimmers in 1912, the event now attracts upwards of 300 swimmers who tackle the various race distances in the picturesque surrounds of Matilda Bay.

In 2019 we celebrated an historic milestone with our 100th swim and a return to the straight line course from the city to Matilda Bay for the flagship 3.5km Challenge.

Over its long history the Swim Thru Perth has attracted the cream of Western Australian and Australian swimming – it has been swum and won by Olympians and World Champions including our Event Patron, Shelley Taylor-Smith who first swum the event aged 12.

The swim is a highlight of Perth’s busy open water swimming calendar, and – in addition to elite competitors – attracts swimmers of all ages and standards. Each year, with support from all the Event Sponsors and competitors, the Swim Thru Perth commits to raise funds for a nominated charity.

Entries open each Spring for the annual race which is usually held on the third Sunday of January.

Copy of the Swim Thru Perth Program from 1913