Nanaimo Open Water Swim and SwimRun Challenge 2026

Westwood Lake Park in Nanaimo, British Columbia, hosts this Canaqua Sports race day in August, bringing together open-water swimmers, SwimRun athletes, and trail runners at the same lakeside venue. The swim program offers 1K, 3K, and 5K distances. The 1K is a single lap, intended as a season starter. The 3K provides a longer distance for swimmers, and the 5K involves up to five laps around Westwood Lake. This event is in its early stages, with Canaqua Sports returning to Nanaimo for its second year. The Mudskipper SwimRun utilizes the Westwood Lake course in one-lap and two-lap configurations, designated as 10K and 20K. The shorter race is noted as 9.5K, and the longer one is structured as a double lap. A distinct Nanaimo 10K Trail Run uses the same route as the SwimRun competitors, allowing runners to participate without the swimming components. Pre-registered SwimRun athletes receive a Mudskipper runners hat. Sumarpo Wetsuits supports Canaqua’s swim and SwimRun events. The organizer is seeking volunteers to expand its British Columbia open-water and SwimRun offerings.