Tallchief Open Water Challenge

Immerse yourself in the exhilarating waters of Skiatook Lake for the 18th Annual Tallchief Open Water Challenge, set to take place on Sunday, September 13, 2026. This year marks a significant change with the introduction of a new swim course at Zink Ranch's Boy Scout camp, northwest of Sand Springs, Oklahoma.
Registration is now open exclusively online until Sunday, September 6, 2026, at 11:59 pm CDT. Early registrants who sign up by August 1 will receive an event t-shirt and ensure their spot in this limited-entry race with a total cap of 165 swimmers.
The entry fee is $43 plus a $5 administrative charge, which covers your swim cap, finisher medal, post-event food, refreshments, and more. Please note that refunds are not available due to the logistical requirements of organizing such an event.
Swimmers aged nine and above who are proficient in open water conditions can participate in one of five distances: a quarter-mile sprint, half mile, full mile, two miles, or the challenging three-mile course for those with exceptional endurance. The 3-mile swimmers must complete their first two miles within an hour and ten minutes to be eligible.
The race day begins at 7:15 am when registration opens on Zink Ranch property near Lake Skiatook. Swimmers are required to check in, collect necessary gear, and warm up between 8:15 and 8:45 am under the watchful eye of lifeguards stationed in boats.
A mandatory safety briefing kicks off at 8:50 am on the beach before swimmers hit the water. The quarter-mile race starts promptly at 9:00 am, followed by half mile and full distance races as soon as possible after that, with the two and three-mile events beginning shortly thereafter.
The swim course features a clockwise out-and-back route marked clearly with buoys for each distance. Safety is paramount; kayaks and canoes patrol the water while a power boat stands ready to assist in case of emergencies. Swimmers must wear provided caps corresponding to their race category, notify officials if they have latex allergies, and return timing chips upon completion or withdrawal.
Water temperatures are expected to exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit, making wetsuits unnecessary for this event. Swim aids such as fins, paddles, pull buoys, snorkels, and kickboards are prohibited; however, personal safety floats like the ISHOF, Kiefer SaferSwimmer, or New Wave swim buoy can be used.
Awards will be presented to top finishers at each distance starting around 10 am. Post-race festivities include food and refreshments from 9:30 am until noon, providing a perfect opportunity for swimmers to celebrate their achievements with fellow competitors in the scenic setting of Skiatook Lake.
Join Tulsa Masters Swim Club (TMSC) as they host this thrilling aquatic event under the guidance of Leslie Moon. For more information or inquiries, contact swimtallchief@gmail.com.