Mt Holly Mile 2026

O'CRUD

Saturday, May 2, 2026

The O'CRUD (Open-water Catawba River Up and Down) race on Saturday, May 2nd will have two distance options. Both start and finish at the Mount Holly Boat Landing in Mount Holly, NC. The 2.4-mile 10K distances will both have an in-water, treading start. Participants will swim upstream for half the distance of each race before turning to head back downstream to the finish at the boat landing.

This race is the 2026 kickoff of the Charlotte Open Water Swim Series. The series consists of the O’CRUD, the Hell or High Water Swim, the Mt. Holly Mile and the Charlotte Open Water Championship.

What: O’CRUD open water race

When: Sat., May 2, 2026

10K starts at 8:00 AM

2.4 Mile starts at 8:05 AM

Where: Mount Holly Boat Landing, 724 Elm Ave., Mount Holly, NC

Cost:

10K - $175

2.4 Mile - $85

Please note: 10K swimmers must be accompanied by a kayak escort. If swimmers cannot provide their own escort, they can arrange for a kayaker and/or kayak on the registration page.

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.

Charlotte Open Water Championships

September 26, 2026

Don't miss Charlotte's premiere open water swim event!

2 Mile and 1 Mile option, plus an 800-yard fun swim for beginners

This is an easy-to-navigate out-and-back course on the Catawba River in Mt. Holly, NC (just outside Charlotte) starting and ending at Dutchman's Creek Landing.

This is the culmination of the three-event Charlotte Open Water Swim Series. For beginners, or those just wanting a leisurely swim at this scenic riverside setting, we also have an 800-yard fun swim.

Safety is top priority, and we will have kayakers and monitors across the course. Food, beverages and good times afterward!

725 Elm Ave., Mt. Holly, NC 28120

What: Charlotte Open Water Championships

When: Saturday, September 26, 2026

2 Mile / 1 Mile start at 8:00 AM

800 Yard starts at 8:10 AM

Where: Dutchman's Creek, 725 Elm Ave., Mount Holly, NC

Cost:

2 Mile /1 Mile - $75

800 Yard - $45