Alkmaar Sport organises 2nd edition Open Water Alkmaar

Published on: 27 May 2026

On Sunday 28 June 2026, Alkmaar Sport and swimming clubs OEZA and DAW are once again organising Open Water Alkmaar. Following a successful first edition, the open-water swimming event is returning to the Hoornsevaart. From 10:00, competitive swimmers will take action during the official KNZB distances. Later in the day, there will be space for recreational swimmers over distances of 250, 500, 1000, 2000 and, new this year, 3000 metres. Participants will swim in a unique setting past the windmills and the open landscape surrounding the Hoornsevaart. More information and tickets for the recreational distances are available via www.hoornsevaart.nl/owa.

Successful first edition gets a follow-up

“Last year we saw how much enthusiasm there is for open-water swimming in Alkmaar,” says Max Delissen, swimming ambassador at Alkmaar Sport and one of the driving forces behind the initiative. “The combination of recreational swimmers, competitive swimmers, clubs, youth and spectators made for a fantastic day of sport in and around the water. We want to build further on that this year. Open Water Alkmaar is accessible to various levels and ages, as long as participants have at least their A and B swimming certificates.”

Recreational open water swimming

The recreational distances are intended for swimmers who want to take part in an open water swimming event in an accessible way. You can choose from 250, 500, 1000, 2000 and 3000 metres. This means there is a suitable distance for beginner open water swimmers, young participants and swimmers looking for a longer challenge alike.

The shorter distances of 250 and 500 metres are free of charge, which also makes the event attractive for young swimmers who want to try out open-water swimming. For the longer distances, there is a participation fee of €10. The recreational events start from 11:15. Registration is possible via www.hoornsevaart.nl/owa. For competitive swimmers, official KNZB distances are on the programme. These start at 10:00 and registration for them is via https://webkalender.knzb.nl/.

Preparing with training sessions

Those who want to prepare well for Open Water Alkmaar can take part in various clinics beforehand. Clinics are provided for adults and youth, so that participants can appear at the start with more confidence. During the clinics, attention is paid to open water swimming, proper preparation and dealing with conditions that are different from those in the swimming pool.

“Open-water swimming has something special,” continues Max. “You swim outside, in a natural environment and together with other participants. For some swimmers that feels familiar, for others it is completely new. With the clinics, we want to help participants take part well-prepared and with enjoyment.”

The largest open water swimming event in the Netherlands

Alongside the swimming events, there will also be room on the day itself for additional sporting activities, including beach water polo. This makes Open Water Alkmaar not only an event for participants, but also for visitors who want to experience the atmosphere at the Hoornsevaart.

Max: “We hope to welcome many swimmers again. Last year was a great start, and this year we want to build on that together. It is precisely the mix of youth, recreational swimmers and competitive swimmers that makes this day special. Everyone who wants to take part can find all the practical information via www.hoornsevaart.nl/owa.”