Swimming Home: Taking on the Chicago River Swim
- Niki Neumann
- Jun 25
- 2 min read
I am so excited to share some exciting news—I was selected to participate in the 2026 Chicago River Swim on September 20th!
When I first heard about this year's Chicago River Swim, I sat down and completed and then submitted my application as soon as I could. After a few weeks went past, I received an email that I had been selected and I was beyond excited! Each year, only 500 swimmers are selected through a competitive application process that considers previous open water swimming experience, making me incredibly grateful and honored to have been chosen for this year's event. This race feels especially meaningful because it takes place in my hometown area of Chicago.
I've loved swimming ever since I was a little girl. Whether it was spending my summers at Recreation Pool in Arlington Heights, taking trips to Noah's Ark in the Wisconsin Dells, or jumping into every lake and beach I could find, I've always felt at home in the water. While swimming has always been part of my life, I only recently discovered the world of open water swimming.
In 2024, I completed the Donner Lake Open Water Swim in California, which gave me my first real taste of open water racing.
Then last year, I challenged myself even further by completing my very first Ironman 70.3 in Madison, Wisconsin. Crossing that finish line reminded me just how much I love pushing myself beyond what I once thought was possible.
Now, I get to take on another unforgettable adventure by swimming through the heart of Chicago. There is something incredibly special about returning home to participate in such a unique event, and I truly feel honored to have been selected.
With race day in September, I'm looking forward to spending plenty of time in the water this summer as I train and prepare!
Supporting ALS
As part of participating in the Chicago River Swim, every swimmer is required to raise $1,200 to support ALS research and patient care.
This cause makes the event even more meaningful. Every donation, no matter the amount, helps support individuals and families affected by ALS while allowing me to participate in this incredible experience.
If you'd like to support me and this amazing cause, I would be so grateful for your donation through my fundraising page. Every contribution truly makes a difference, and your encouragement means the world to me.
Thank you for following along on another adventure! I can't wait to share my training, the fundraising journey, and of course, everything from race day this September.
Want to support my Chicago River Swim and help me reach my $1,200 fundraising goal for ALS? You can donate here:
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