Charlotte Open Water Championship 2026

This 10-mile swim follows the path of North Carolina’s devastating Great Flood of 1916 on the Catawba River. The storm's fierce blow prompted the construction of dams and, subsequently, the region's electrification. The race name is derived from news and film accounts of the event.

Unlike the epic conditions that sparked that historic event, you’ll enjoy a well-marked course in the Catawba River and mild conditions.You’ll pass 5 scenic bridges and railroad trestles. Safety is paramount with boat and kayak support. Shuttle service is included.

28TH Annual

Cannonball's Cycling Team

Metric & Half-Metric Century Charity Ride,

and Inaugural DuAthlon & 5K

June 6/7, 2026

The Cannonballs Cycling Team (CCT) Annual Metric Century is back for its 28th year, and we have new exciting offerings in store! This year we are offering run options for those who aren’t cyclist or simply looking for more of a challenge, and for the first time we’ll incorporate timing.

METRIC & HALF METRIC RIDERS: You read the above correctly, if you are one of our annual riders…this year we will incorporate timing so we don’t have so rely on Strava. Come put your endurance to the test as you conquer the hills throughout Mecklenburg, Gaston and Lincoln Counties while raising funds for local charity. Participates are invited to join individually or as a team. This police escorted ride starts and concludes at White Water Middle School in Charlotte, North Carolina. CCT Metric and Half Metric participants will have SAG support and many options for fuel and nutrition at each rest stop.

Distance Options

CCT Metric Century Ride (includes 4 rest stops): 8:00 AM

Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/51073788

CCT Half Metric Century Ride (includes 2 rest stops): 8:30 AM

Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/46506295://ridewithgps.com/routes/46506295

FUN RIDERS: CCT will host the annual 15-mile Fun Ride again this year, it will begin at 8:45 AM (CCT Guided Route, not timed).

RUNNERS: There will be a traditional 5k (run only) option, and a duathlon (5k run followed by any bike distance) option. The 5k for both options will begin at 7:00 AM.

Registration Includes:

• SAG support throughout ride (Metric/Half Metric Riders only)

• Lunch for all participants following ride

• Finisher Gift for all CCT Metric, Half Metric Riders, Duathlon or 5k registrants (Guaranteed for first 150 participants)

• Recovery Ride - June 7, 2023 at 8AM (https://ridewithgps.com/routes/50533543)

• Access to Swap Meet Featuring Local Bike Shops

The Mt. Holly Mile

& 800m Fun Swim

Saturday, July 11, 2026

The Mt. Holly Mile swim is a one-mile open water race in the Catawba River. The start and finish are at the Mt. Holly Boat Landing in Mount Holly, NC, just outside Charlotte, NC. The start will be an in-water, treading start.

Participants will swim upstream for a half-mile and then turn back for the second half-mile to finish at the boat landing.

This race is the second event in the 2026 Charlotte Open Water Swim Series. The series consists of the O’CRUD, the Mt. Holly Mile and the Charlotte Open Water Championships.

Participants will earn points for placing in each event. At the end of the series, awards will be given to category winners.

What: Mt. Holly Mile Open Water Swim

When: Saturday, July 11th at 8 am

Where: 724 Elm Ave. Mt. Holly, NC 28120

Cost:

Mt Holly Mile - $65

800 m Fun Swim - $45