Balmoral Swim

The Balmoral Swim for Cancer, as it is officially known, is one of Sydney's open water swimming gems.

Not one to puff its chest out, the Balmoral Swim has been quietly giving swimmers a delightful swim at one of, if not the, most beautiful harbour beaches in Sydney since 1990.

If it wasn't for the great job they do of raising money for many cancer-related charities, locals would probably rather you didn't get to know about this pristine flatwater location!

But, be it as it is, you now know about the swim and we implore you to get along and support this wholly volunteer and charity-run event.

If you've been training all summer and you're now ready to take on your first open water swim, then look no further than the Balmoral Swim.

Located in the calm waters of the Sydney Harbour, you won't have to battle waves, currents or your own anxiety with this swim.

This swim is perfect for easing yourself into this magnificent sport, and without the ocean challenges you can simply enjoy the meandering 1km swim.

1km is the perfect distance to challenge yourself but also have fun, and there is ample water safety provided to guide you along the journey and put your mind at ease.[/vc_column_text][vc_toggle title="The Balmoral Beach Club" el_id="1467789507166-93b60193-afd0"]In 1914 a group of young Mosman men who called themselves 'The Smugglers', met at the site of the old Euroka Camp to swim in the harbour. They decided to form a social and swimming club and the Balmoral Beach Club was established.

Situated on the northernmost point of Balmoral Beach, the BBC is a family club that holds swim races every Saturday and Sunday where no one is refused entry because of a lack of swimming ability. All races are handicapped and the mingling of swimmers of varying ability before and after the races has built up a strong camaraderie amongst members.

Membership is 2,000 strong with a long waitlist to join this exclusive club.

Swim courses

200m junior swim

The kids can get amongst it as well, with under 12's diving in for a quick whip around the buoys located just off the beach. The course is sharp and snappy, and loaded with water safety.

200m dash for glory

If you've entered the 1km Harbour Swim you can give the dash for glory a crack in the hope of winning the whopping $500 cash pot if you pull off the victory. The course is a short whip around the buoys from the beach and back. Numbers are limited, so be quick to register.

1km harbour swim

Starting on the sand just south of Rocky Point, the swim heads south along the beach to the first turning buoy, before taking a 90 degree turn to head off out into the harbour. After rounding buoy #2 you head north before snaking your way back to the beach keeping Rocky Point on your right.

5km marathon swim

Looking to go long? You can now take on a 5km marathon swim around an open water circuit. This event is limited to 200 swimmers only.

While you're there

Besides its beautiful beaches, Balmoral is home to delicious restaurants and cafes.

Replenish your energy with a delectable meal at the Boathouse Balmoral. Using only the best local produce, the Boathouse prides itself on great coffee. Or enjoy a beer or wine overlooking the stunning Sydney harbour foreshore.

If you want more exercise after the gruelling race, the Spit Bridge to Manly Scenic Walkway is a must. Catch breathtaking views and scenery as you walk a series of short tracks.

Travel and parking

Parking at Balmoral is tough and expensive. Unless you're getting there early, or willing to walk a considerable distance from a free street-side park, public transport is the way to go.

To get to Balmoral you can catch a 257 bus from Chatswood or a 238 bus from Taronga zoo.

The Mosman Council ‰âÒMosman rider‰âÂå can also be caught along its circular route that passes Balmoral beach. SMS a blank text to 0459 667 616 and get a return text stating when the bus will reach its next waypoint.

There is also a free shuttle bus organised for the swim which passes a number of bus stops and parking. For more information see the shuttle bus map.

Results

2015 results | 2014 results | 2013 results