REGULATION

1. General Information

This document outlines the regulations for the XIX Latvian Open Winter Swimming Championship, which is also a stage of the IWSA World Cup.

Purpose: The event aims to bring together Latvian and international winter swimmers, promote the sport, encourage new clubs, and identify the best individual and team swimmers in Latvia.
Location: The championship will take place at the picturesque Beberliņi Reservoir (Lībiešu iela 8, Liepāja). This tranquil spot, embraced by a pine forest, has for years been the beloved gathering place for Liepāja’s winter swimmers, embodying the “VeloRonis” club’s vibrant energy. While Liepāja is renowned as the “City of Winds,” Beberliņi offers a unique microclimate, providing calm, almost windless conditions for winter swimming, a feature greatly cherished by participants. We are proud to continue the tradition of hosting significant events at this special location, where winter swimmers truly feel at home.
Dates: The competition will be held on November 20 and 21, 2026.
Organizers: The event is organized by the Liepāja bicycle activists and winter swimmers club “VeloRonis” with support from the Liepāja municipality and in cooperation with the Latvian Winter Swimming Federation and the International Winter Swimming Association (IWSA).
Welcome to Liepāja – the city where wind, music, and the sea meet! While the competitions at Beberliņi Reservoir promise to be intense and full of adrenaline, we invite you to also enjoy the unique charm of Liepāja. Known as the “city of wind,” Liepāja boasts wide, sandy beaches, a rich musical heritage, and the unique military history of Karosta. Furthermore, the city’s architectural landscape bears the indelible mark of Paul Max Bertschi, Liepāja’s most distinguished architect of all time, whose legacy is still visible in the streets. We hope you will have the opportunity not only to compete but also to discover the cultural and natural beauty of our city.

2. Competition Schedule

The competition schedule may be subject to change depending on weather conditions and the number of participants.

Thursday, November 19

17:00 – 20:00: Collection of starter kits for pre-registered participants and on-site registration at Hotel “Līva” (Lielā iela 11, Liepāja).

Friday, November 20

09:30: Championship Office opens.
9:30 – 10:30: Participant registration.
11:00 – 11:30: Opening Ceremony, Briefing, and Warm-up.
11:40 – 12:20: 100 m Breaststroke.
12:20 – 12:35: “Young Seals” non-timed water immersion in a separate pool.
12:35 – 13:15: 25 m Freestyle.
13:15 – 13:30: “Polar bears” and “Seals”.
13:30 – 14:30: 200 m Freestyle.
15:00: Awards ceremony.
Guided Tour: Discover Liepāja’s Winter Charm! Explore Liepāja – the city of wind, sea, and history – in its unique winter atmosphere during Latvia’s patriotic month. A guided tour is available upon request, with participants choosing their preferred day during registration. Join a local guide for a peaceful walk to admire the Old Town, delve into the city’s rich history, and marvel at its impressive Art Nouveau architecture.

Saturday, November 21

9:30: Championship Office opens.
9:00 – 10:30: Participant registration.
11:00 – 11:30: Opening Ceremony, Briefing, and Warm-up.
11:40 – 12:10: 25 m Breaststroke.
12:10 – 12:25: “Young seals” non-timed water immersion in a separate pool.
12:25 – 13:45: 450 m Freestyle.
14:00 – 14:10: 50 m Ice Butterfly.
14:25 – 15:10: 50 m Freestyle.
15:20 – 15:35: Club and Open Team Relay 4 x 25 m Freestyle.
16:00: Awards ceremony for winners, followed by a surprise prize drawing for a paid distance race participant who is present.
19:30: Participants’ banquet/party at the Wiktorija Culture House (Graudu iela 36/38, Liepāja), buffets and live music are included.

3. Participation and Distances

The competition is international, but athletes may not represent Russia or Belarus.

Registration: To participate, swimmers must be registered for the competition. The maximum number of participants for each distance is limited, and once this number is reached, registration may be closed. By registering, a participant confirms their agreement with the competition’s rules and regulations.
Under 18: Participants under 18 must have a parent, guardian, or authorized person present at the competition and for in-person registration. The entry form for a minor must be signed by a parent, guardian, or authorized person.
Health: By registering, participants confirm that their health is suitable for winter swimming and that they take personal responsibility for their health during the competition.
Age Categories: To ensure fair competition, swimmers are divided into age groups. Your age for the 2026–2027 season is determined by the year 2027. Below is a detailed breakdown of the disciplines and distances available to each category, including both competitive and non-competitive options.
- Competitive disciplines (25m to 450m, all styles):
  - A1: 14 and younger (25 meters only)
  - A2: 15–19 (25 to 100 meters)
  - B: 20–29 (all disciplines)
  - C: 30–39 (all disciplines)
  - D: 40–44 (all disciplines)
  - E: 45–49 (all disciplines)
  - F: 50–54 (all disciplines)
  - G: 55–59 (all disciplines)
  - H: 60–64 (all disciplines)
  - I: 65–69 (all disciplines)
  - J: 70–74 (all disciplines)
  - J1: 75–79 (all disciplines)
  - J2: 80–85 (all disciplines)
  - J3: 85–90 (all disciplines)
  - J4: 90 and older (all disciplines)
- Freestyle Team relays: Club teams are divided into age categories based on the combined age of the four team members. All teams in the Open category compete in a single age group.
  - FR1: Team total age ≤ 150 years.
  - FR2: Team total age 151–200 years.
  - FR3: Team total age 201–250 years.
  - FR4: Team total age ≥ 251 years.
  - Open: Mixed team relay – no age categories apply.
- Non-Competitive Swims: Non-timed swims (“Young Seals,” “Seals,” and “Polar Bears”) are also available. The minimum age for a non-competitive swim is 8 years old.
Distances: The full list of available distances is provided below, with maximum participant numbers and age group eligibility for each.
- Non-Competitive Swims – Dive into Joy Without the Clock!
  These distances are designed for everyone to experience the magic of winter swimming without the pressure of competition or timed results. It’s a wonderful opportunity to challenge yourself, connect with like-minded enthusiasts, and create unforgettable memories in a safe and supportive environment. For anyone whose main goal is the experience, not the seconds, these swims promise pure winter delight!
  - “Young Seals” (Water Immersion) – A Safe Introduction to Winter Swimming
    This is a safe and fun first introduction to winter swimming, specially designed for children aged 8 and older and anyone wishing to gently explore cold water. Dive into a separate pool, which provides a calm and controlled environment, allowing participants to gain a positive experience alongside other young swimmers. There is an unlimited number of participants in this category, ensuring every brave soul can join.
  - “Seals” (25 m swim) and “Polar Bears” (50 m swim) – An Invigorating Experience Without the Pressure
    Enjoy the exhilaration of winter swimming without any competitive stress! These distances are a fantastic opportunity to join fellow enthusiasts and test yourself in secure conditions, savoring every moment in the cold water. Regardless of your experience level, this is a path to self-confidence and a sense of community. Participation for both “Seals” and “Polar Bears” is limited to up to 30 participants on Friday and 30 participants on Saturday, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all.
- Individual swims:
  - 25 m Freestyle (15 age groups, A1–J4, for up to 108 participants);
  - 25 m Breaststroke (15 age groups, A1-J4, for up to 84 participants);
  - 50 m Ice Butterfly (14 age groups, A2-J4, for up to 24 participants);
  - 50 m Freestyle (14 age groups, A2-J4, for up to 90 participants);
  - 100 m Breaststroke (14 age groups, A2–J4, for up to 48 participants);
  - 200 m Freestyle (13 age groups, B–J4, for up to 48 participants);
  - 450 m Freestyle (13 age groups, B-J4, for up to 24 participants).
- Freestyle Team relays ( for up to 18 teams):
  - 4×25 m Freestyle (Club teams in 4 age groups, FR1 – FR4).
  - 4×25 m Open (Mixed team – one age group).
4. Registration and Fees
- Online Pre-registration: Open until November 13 2026, at 11:59 PM on the veloronis.lv website. You must fill out the application form and transfer the participation fee to the organizer’s bank account.
  - Online Registration Price:
    - 1–2 individual swims: €25 per swim;
    - 3–7 individual swims: €20 per swim;
    - Non-timed swims: €10 per swim.
  - Bank details for payment: Liepājas veloaktīvistu un ziemas peldētāju klubs „VeloRonis“, Reģ. Nr. 40008220083, AS “SEB bank”, LV60UNLA0050021816720.
  - Purpose of payment: Participant first name, last name, and the distance/s.
  - If the entry fee is not transferred before the competition day, the full on-site fee must be paid on the day of the competition.
  - When applying online, participants must also present a personal identification document during in-person registration on November 19, 20, or 21.
- On-site Registration: Available at Hotel “Līva” on November 19 from 17:00 to 20:00, and at the event venue at Beberliņi Recreational Park on November 20 and 21 from 09:30 to 10:30. You must present a personal identification document, fill out the entry form, and pay the fee in cash or via online banking.
  - On-site Registration Price:
    - Non-timed swims: €10 per swim.
    - 1–2 individual swims: €35 per swim.
    - 3–7 individual swims: €30 per swim.
    - Freestyle Team Relay swim: €40 per team.
  - On the competition days, November 20 and 21, from 09:30 to 10:30, registration and payment will be done in person at the event registration desk.
  - When registering in person, participants must present an identification document, fill out the entry form, and pay the fee in cash or via online banking in the presence of the registration staff.
- No Refunds: No refunds will be given if a participant doesn’t attend or if the event is canceled due to force majeure.
- Optional Fees:
  - Medal of participation: €5.
  - Closing ceremony and banquet: €40 (includes a buffet and live music).
- Participation Fee Includes:
  - A starter kit with a commemorative medal (if added during registration).
  - Access to the competition pool, sauna, hot tub, and hot tea and soup.
  - Professional lifeguard supervision and on-site medical assistance.
  - Baggage storage.
  - Prizes for winners and professional photography.
5. Awards
- Winners are determined separately for men and women in each discipline and age group.
- All participants receive a certificate of participation.
- The top three competitors in each age category will receive medals.
- The fastest overall male and female participant in each individual distance will receive a commemorative prize or a monetary award at the organizer’s discretion.
6. Competition Rules

General Rules

These rules might seem detailed, but they are crafted with one main goal in mind: to ensure a safe, fair, and unforgettable experience for all participants! They help maintain the integrity of the competition and allow every swimmer to feel confident that they are competing on equal terms. We believe that by collectively adhering to these fundamental principles, we will foster a great and friendly atmosphere throughout the championship!
- Attire: Swimwear must be non-transparent and may not extend beyond the knee or past the shoulder. One swimming suit (a women’s two-piece is counted as one), one or two swimming caps, and swimming goggles are allowed. Additional gear such as gloves, hats, fins, hand paddles, or neoprene-based suits is not permitted.
- Start and Finish: At the starting line, competitors will receive a series of commands to ensure a fair and organized start.
  - “Take off your clothes”: Swimmers are instructed to prepare to enter the water.
  - “Get in the water”: Competitors have a five-second interval to enter the pool. This time may be adjusted for higher age categories to provide a more comfortable entry.
  - “On your marks”: This command is given three seconds after “Get in the water.” Swimmers must be in the ready position. The ready position requires competitors to hold the start bar (or a designated, clearly marked step of the ladder) with one hand, with their front shoulder submerged and feet on the stairs. A 5-second penalty may be added to the race time for failing to comply with this command, ensuring fair and consistent starting conditions for everyone.
  - Start Signal: The race officially begins with a signal given three seconds after the “On your marks” command.
  - Finish: To complete the race, a competitor must touch the end wall of the lane. Touching the steps does not constitute a valid finish.
- False Starts: Blatant false starts result in disqualification, while minor false starts add a 5-second penalty, to ensure that all competitors begin at the same moment and no one gains an unfair advantage.
- Turns: Tumble turns are forbidden. Swimmers must touch the end of the pool wall with at least one hand before a turn.
- Underwater Swimming: Swimming underwater is strictly limited to a maximum of 5 meters from either the start or a turn. This applies when the swimmer is fully submerged and no part of the body, including the head, breaks the water’s surface. A 5-second penalty will be added to the final time for any violation, as this rule helps maintain the spirit of winter swimming and allows officials to monitor swimmers effectively for safety.
- Leaving the Water: Competitors must leave the water immediately after their race is completed. They are required to take their clothes from the provided basket and promptly exit the pool area to ensure the safety and flow of the event.
- Result Classification: Should a competitor fail to follow the rules or meet the time limit, their result will be marked as one of the following:
  - DSQ – Disqualification
  - OTL – Over Time Limit
  - DNF – Did Not Finish
  - These classifications are essential to maintain the integrity and fairness of the competition, ensuring adherence to safety guidelines and time limitations.
- Water Classification: Event is classified by water temperature according to IWSA standards. The temperature category determines the maximum allowed distance for a race.
  - A Ice water: -2°C to 0° (25, 50, 100, 200 meters)
  - B Freezing water: 0°C to +5°C (25, 50, 100, 200, and 450 meters as optional).
  - C Cold water: +5°C to +10°C (25, 50, 100, 200, 450, and 1000 meters as optional)
Rules for Specific Events

This section outlines the rules for specific race disciplines. General regulations, unless otherwise stated, apply to all races.
- Non-Timed Swims: Polar Bears, Seals, and Young Seals
  - “Young Seals,” “Seals,” and “Polar Bears” are non-competitive, untimed events for water immersion or short-distance swims.
- Breaststroke
  - 25 m and 100 m classic breaststroke.
- Freestyle
  - Freestyle means any swimming style is allowed.
- Ice Butterfly
  - This discipline follows the standard butterfly stroke. From the first arm stroke and after each turn, the swimmer’s upper body must be kept above water. Both hands must simultaneously move forward over the water, and all leg movements must be performed simultaneously throughout the race.
- Freestyle Relay
  - Team Composition: Each team must consist of four swimmers and must be mixed-gender (e.g., three male and one female). In the Club category, all team members must represent the same club.
  - Race Flow: The first and third swimmers start at the start end of the lane, while the second and fourth swimmers start at the turning end. Subsequent swimmers may only start once their teammate has touched the wall. The race ends when the fourth swimmer touches the wall.
- Endurance Swims (200m and 450m)
  - Age and Time Limits: The minimum age is 18. 200m must be completed in 8 minutes (100m in 4 minutes) and 450m in 15 minutes (225m in 7 minutes and 30 seconds).
  - Qualifications: To register for the 450m swim, competitors must have previously completed a 200m swim in water no warmer than +5°C, or complete a 200m endurance swim during this event.
  - Medical Requirements: Participants are advised to undergo an electrocardiogram (ECG) prior to the competition, but this does not need to be submitted to the organisers. The AFFIDAVIT form, available as an annex to the regulations, must be submitted to the organisers. A compulsory medical examination will be carried out, and any adverse findings will result in disqualification.
  - Assistant: Endurance swimmers must have a registered assistant who remains at the start end of the lane throughout the swim. The assistant’s role is to provide support and, if necessary, signal a judge to stop the race for safety reasons.
  - Insurance and Briefing: It is highly recommended that endurance swimmers have a personal insurance policy for extreme sports. All endurance swimmers must attend a mandatory briefing. Failure to attend will result in disqualification.
7. Safety and Protests
- Safety: A lifeguard and medical professional will be present at the venue. Swimmers must not use stimulants, alcohol, or body-warming substances before a swim. Participants agree not to hold organizers responsible for any injuries due to personal fault or overexertion.
- Protests: A protest against an official’s decision or rule violation must be submitted in writing (English or Latvian) at the race office within 30 minutes of the event. A €10 fee is required, which will be refunded if the protest is upheld. The event director’s decision is final.
- Competition Regulations and Amendments: The organizing team and referees reserve the right to make decisions on any matters not covered in these regulations and to amend the regulations without prior notice. By registering, all participants are deemed to have read, understood, and agreed to these regulations and are responsible for staying informed of any changes.
  - Last updated: These regulations were last updated on August 30, 2026.
8. Data Protection

“VeloRonis” is the data controller and respects participant privacy.
- Public Results: Publicly visible results will include the participant’s name, club/city, distance, and placement.
- Anonymity: If you wish to be anonymous, you can inform the organizers via email at veloronis@veloronis.lv. Your name will be listed as “Anonymous,” and you will not be eligible for prizes.
- Media: By registering, you consent to the use of photos and videos for promotional purposes.
9. Contact Information
- Email: veloronis@veloronis.lv
- Inga Krivcova: +371 26324104
- Margarita Teivane: +371 29748164

XIX Latvian Open Winter Swimming Championship, stage of the IWSA World Cup

November 20 and 21, 2026

REGULATION

1. General Information

2. Competition Schedule

3. Participation and Distances

4. Registration and Fees

5. Awards

6. Competition Rules

7. Safety and Protests

8. Data Protection

9. Contact Information