The Charlotte Open Water Championships 2026 returns to Mt. Holly, North Carolina on September 26th. This premiere open water swim event offers a 1 Mile and 2 Mile option for competitive swimmers alongside an 800 Yard fun swim designed for beginners. The race starts at Dutchman's Creek Landing, just outside Charlotte. Race morning in Mt. Holly promises crisp early-morning air with temperatures around the low to mid-20s Celsius. The Catawba River provides a scenic backdrop as participants warm up and prepare on the banks of 725 Elm Avenue. Spectators can expect a relaxed atmosphere with safety being top priority, thanks to kayakers and monitors stationed across the course. The event is part of the Charlotte Open Water Swim Series and marks its third consecutive year in Mt. Holly. The series has grown significantly over the years, attracting participants from various backgrounds who appreciate the unique setting along this historic river. With a focus on community engagement, the event also supports local charities through participant fees that go towards scholarships for underprivileged children. The race venue is an easy-to-navigate out-and-back course starting and ending at Dutchman's Creek Landing. Swimmers can expect to follow the gentle curves of the Catawba River, which offers a mix of calm waters and slight currents depending on the flow. The 800 Yard fun swim provides a shorter option for those who want to experience open water swimming in this beautiful setting.
Register now at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/111352/charlotte-open-water-championship-2026. The cost for the 1 Mile and 2 Mile races is $75, while the fun swim costs $45. Bib pickup will be held on race day from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM at Dutchman's Creek Landing; bring your ID for verification. The start location address is 725 Elm Ave., Mount Holly, NC 28120. The event welcomes swimmers of all ages and skill levels, with the minimum age requirement being 16 years old. First-time participants should ensure they arrive prepared with appropriate swimwear, goggles, and a positive mindset. The Charlotte Open Water Championships in Mt. Holly on September 26th is worth attending for its commitment to community engagement through charitable support and the opportunity to enjoy an open water experience amidst the picturesque Catawba River.
Races Offered
1 Mile
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
1mi
terrain
Type —
Running,
Water sports
timer
08:00
sell
$82.23
2 mile
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
2mi
terrain
Type —
Running,
Water sports
timer
08:00
sell
$82.23
800 yard Fun Swim
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
800yd
terrain
Type —
Running,
Water sports
timer
08:00
sell
$50.14
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Mt Holly.
thermostatTemperature
17.5° / 27.5°
wb_sunnyFeels like
17.9° / 27.7°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 49m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.7 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
8.3 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
High
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
72.7%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:07
nightlight
Sunset
19:29
About Mt Holly
Learn more about the host city, Mt Holly.
Mount Holly is a small suburban city in northeastern Gaston County, North Carolina, United States. The city is situated just west of the Catawba River, north of Interstate 85, south of North Carolina State Highway 16. The population was 17,703 at the 2020 census, up from 13,656 in 2010.
