O'CRUD - Open Water Catawba River Up and Down

The 2027 O'CRUD

Sunday, May 2, 2027 · Catawba River · Mt. Holly, NC

A Catawba River tradition, now in its 7th year

Athlete Guide and Event Store coming soon...

Swim some of the clearest water the Catawba has to offer. Both the 5K and 10K courses start at the Mt. Holly Boat Landing. The 10K winds up the river to loop at the Mountain Island Dam. The 5K will have a half-way turnaround marker. Created by Doug Miller and Aquatic Adventures, the O'CRUD is now hosted by Carolina Open Water.

Kayak support is required. Every swimmer needs a kayaker for safety, in both the 5K and the 10K. Bring your own kayaker and kayak, or request a kayak rental during registration. If you are in need of a kayaker, please send an email to [email protected]. We'll work hard to match you with an escort, but we can't guarantee one, so we recommend lining up your own support if you can.

Pricing

Early Bird Until January 1

- 5K $135

- 10K $185

January 1 - March 31 (last registration window for guaranteed swag)

- 5K $155

- 10K $205

Last Chance April 1 - April 23rd (swimmers must provide their own kayaker and kayak)

- 5K $175

- 10K $225

Race Packet Pickup

Saturday May 1st, 3:00-6:00

Location TBD

Awards

All finishers will receive locally-made tokens of accomplishment. Individual awards will be given to top 3 overall Male and Female winners for both the 5K and 10K.

Swimmer Logistics & Course Details

Full race details including race day information, safety considerations, and competition rules will be available via the Athlete Event Guide (released January 2027). If you have specific questions in the meantime, please contact [email protected]

Refunds & Changes

All registrations are final and non-refundable, and entries can't be transferred. You can switch between the 5K and 10K until April 1, 2027. If you move up in distance, you'll need to pay the price difference.

If we need to postpone or reschedule, your registration carries over to the new date. If you can't make it, you can defer your entry to the 2028 O'CRUD.

If we must cancel or modify the course based on weather, lightning, river flow, water quality or circumstances beyond our control, no refunds will be issued.

By registering, you agree to this policy.