Join us for the 9th Annual Crystal Lake Aquathon
Sunday, July 19th, 2026
We are happy to bring back the Crystal Lake Aquathon for the 9th year! This annual event will be returning to the ideal confines of Three Oaks Recreational Center in Crystal Lake, IL. As the original Illinois Aquathon, this race will offer 4 timed options. All proceeds from the race benefit Girls on the Run of Northwest Illinois!
Timed Races
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Sprint Distance (500m swim, 5k run)
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Olympic Distance (1 mile swim, 10k run)
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2 Mile Swim
-1 Mile Swim. Please note the 1-mile swim does not include awards but is timed.
The swim portion takes place in a modified quarry (swim around 3 islands!), and the run is on a combination of trail, sand, and pavement. Wet suits will be allowed if it is below 78 degrees (decision to be made by City of Crystal Lake staff based on water temperature).
Kids' Race
The Kids' Race is perfect for anyone ages 7-12 that would like to try the Aquathon but needs a shorter distance. It includes a 100m swim and a 1 mile run. Swag is included, along with a swim cap. All Kids' Race participants will receive a finisher's medal however there are no awards. Lifeguards and a swim angel will be in the water with the swimmers for safety and encouragement. There is a relay option, so if your child wants to partner with a friend, it's a great way for them to compete together!
Adaptive Race
The Adaptive Race will be a one mile swim only. Swimmers will be allowed physical support from their own family/friends only for protection of the racers and volunteers and may use adaptive equipment in the water as needed.
Course Maps
Start Line
Swim Course Map
Kids Swim Course Map
Run Course Map (new course coming soon! Hint - it's a loop around the water thanks to the City of Crystal Lake!)
Kids Run Course Map
Race Day Schedule
Awards and Celebrations
At the completion of the race, we will celebrate with a post-race party overlooking Three Oaks. Food and beverages will be provided. Food for participants only!! We will have an award ceremony this year!!! Awards will be given for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place for the sprint, Olympic, and 2-mile swim. There will be no awards for the kids, adaptive, relay races or 1 mile swim.
Stay after to enjoy all that Three Oaks has to offer: swimming, sailboat and paddle board rentals, scuba diving, children's playground/splash park, volleyball, fishing, and fun in the sun!
2026 Finisher Medals
The 2026 Aquathon medals will be handmade by the local Girls on the Run chapter of Northwest Illinois. Every medal will be unique and made with love and made with the perfect amount of star power.
2026 Race Swag
Photo coming soon!
Packet Pick-Up
Packet pick up will be occurring at the following three times:
Friday 7/17 3:00pm - 6:00pm at Smith Physical Therapy and Running Academy
(110 W. Woodstock Street - enter on the west/left side of the building where you will see a ramp and blue awning)
*Please note, you will still be required to check-in on race day to receive your timing chip.
Saturday 7/18 9:00am-12:00pm at Smith Physical Therapy and Running Academy
(110 W. Woodstock Street - enter on the west/left side of the building where you will see a ramp and blue awning)
*Please note, you will still be required to check-in on race day to receive your timing chip.
Sunday, 7/19 6:00am-7:00am at Three Oaks Recreation Center (Race Site)
Other Notes:
Wetsuits: Wetsuits are allowed if the water temperature is 78 or lower.
Weather: In the event of inclement weather, the City of Crystal Lake’s Fire Department will be making the call to delay or cancel the race. At this time there is not a make-up date due to a shortage of lifeguards and there are no refunds.
All athletes must be checked in by 7:00am.
Interested in sponsoring the Aquathon to support Girls on the Run? Please email Melissa at melissa.nickle@smithptplus.com or click HERE for more info: