Help Us Promote Swim Safety By Setting an Open Water Swim World Record

This August, we're taking on the incredible challenge of the two-way Signature Swim Relay—a 50+ hour open water swim, across the entire length of Lake Geneva — and back!

Our team from Open Water Swim Coaching (OWSC) is preparing for the first-ever two-way Signature Swim Relay: 140 km of continuous swimming, counter currents on the outward journey, and two full nights in the water.

We’re not just chasing a world record; we're swimming for a cause!

About the Signature Swim

The Signature is an epic swim across the full length of Lake Geneva, Switzerland’s largest lake, from the historic Chillon Castle to the iconic Bains des Pâquis in Geneva. Covering approximately 70 km, it is twice the distance of the English Channel and takes place entirely in fresh water flowing from the stunning alpine scenery that surrounds the lake.

Organized by the Lake Geneva Swimming Association (LGSA), it follows the strict principles of open water marathon swimming, with permissions from the authorities in Switzerland and France.

Typically completed solo or in relay teams of six, the Signature Swim is a true test of endurance and spirit. In 2024, our OWSC team successfully completed the one-way Signature Relay in 23 hours and 40 minutes — earning a spot among LGSA’s Relay Legends with the second-fastest time of the year.

In August 2025, we are aiming higher. An OWSC Team – including five members from the successful 2024 relay – is preparing to attempt the first-ever two-way Signature Swim Relay: swimming the entire length of Lake Geneva twice without stopping. No relay team has ever attempted this challenge before.

Who we are

Our six-member team was brought together by our love for swimming and our appreciation for Lake Geneva (Lac Léman). We met through Open Water Swim Coaching sessions organized for over a decade by one of our own, Alex, at Plage du Reposoir in Geneva, Switzerland.

We come from diverse swimming backgrounds—ranging from recreational and distance swimming to ice water, synchronized, and triathlon swimming. What unites us is a recognition of the privilege that access to swimming provides, and a deep respect for what the bodies of open waters require of us.

It was with this mindset that Alex founded the Open Water Swim Coaching group in 2012: to help others develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding necessary to swim safely, and to fully enjoy what all those open waters—and Lake Geneva in particular—have to offer.

Our Mission: “Swimmers for Swim Safety”

We are dedicating our swim to raising awareness about water safety.

As part of our crowdfunding campaign, we intend to allocate a minimum of one-quarter of the funds raised to support one of the charitable organizations that shares our mission of promoting swimming as a preventive measure against drowning.

Why It Matters

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), drowning is a leading cause of accidental death worldwide. Through our swim and our outreach, we hope to make a real impact — raising awareness, empowering swimmers, and saving lives. By backing our swim, you're helping spread water safety education and saving lives.

Our Goal

We are raising CHF 20,000 to fund this historic swim and we need your help to make it happen.

We will donate a minimum of 25% of the funds raised to an impactful charity that aligns with our values and teaches lifesaving skills worldwide.

The remaining funds will cover the expense of an escort boat and crew all organized by the LGSA for 50+ hours of non-stop safety support.

Join Us

By supporting our project, you’ll be part of an inspiring world-first achievement. We’re aiming to set a world record — but more importantly, we’re swimming to raise awareness for water safety.

Together, we can make waves and save lives!