Alkmaar Sport is organising Open Water Alkmaar: the largest open water swimming event in the Netherlands!

On Sunday 29 June 2025, Alkmaar Sport, in collaboration with swimming clubs OEZA and DAW, is organising the first edition of Open Water Alkmaar. This spectacular event takes place from 10:00 in the unique open water of the Hoornsevaart and accommodates both recreational swimmers and official KNZB competitions. Participants swim in an atmospheric setting past the classic windmills and the beautiful landscape. In addition to the swimming events, beach water polo provides an extra sporting addition to the programme. Tickets for the recreational distances and more information are available via www.hoornsevaart.nl/owa.

The largest open water swimming event in the Netherlands

“Open Water Alkmaar is the open water event that brings recreational and competitive swimmers together,” says Max Delissen, swimming ambassador at Alkmaar Sport and the driving force behind the initiative. “Whether you are young or old, just starting out with swimming or have years of experience: anyone with A and B swimming certificates is welcome. We want to get as many people enthusiastic about the sport of swimming as possible. You swim in a beautiful setting, past classic windmills, in good company and with a wonderful atmosphere. It is precisely that unique combination of recreational and competitive swimming that makes this the largest open water swimming event in the Netherlands.”

For recreational athletes of all levels

The recreational distances of 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 metres are accessible to anyone with at least a swimming certificate A and B. The shorter distances (250 and 500 metres) are free of charge, whereas participation in the longer distances (1000 and 2000 metres) costs €15 including chip timing. The recreational distances start from 11:40 and registration is easy via www.hoornsevaart.nl/owa. Besides the recreational events, official KNZB distances for competitive swimmers have been included in the programme. These start at 10:00 and registration is via mijnowz.knzb.nl.

Beach water polo as a side event

“Besides the unique course past the traditional windmills, we also have a spectacular addition to the programme with beach water polo,” said Max Delissen. “It's a dynamic and fun side-event that fits the atmosphere of the day perfectly and is definitely worth watching.”

Everyone is welcome!

Max continues: ”per recreational distance there are about 100 places available, so I advise everyone to sign up quickly. All practical information and tickets can be found at www.hoornsevaart.nl/owa. I look forward to welcoming as many enthusiastic swimmers as possible on 29 June!”