Oceanside CA— The Annual Oceanside Labor Day Pier Swim is a 1.1 mile open water swim around the Oceanside Pier. The first Labor Day Pier Swim occurred in 1929 but in the 1970’s the Oceanside Swim Club took over the event for the city and it became the primary fundraiser for the club. As swimmers dive into the surf, circle around the pier, ride the waves back the beach and race to the finish line on the sand, they help sustain the Oceanside Swim Club (OSC).

OSC is a non-profit organization and competitive swim team for children 5-18 years of age. The money raised from this event provides scholarships for qualifying athletes why may have never
entered the competition pool had it not been made more affordable by the club. Funds from the event are also used to purchase new equipment and provide supplemental training for both swimmers and coaches.
Last year over 500 swimmers competed in the event making it one of the most successful events in the last few years. From longtime participant’s now in their 70’s and 80’s to injured military veterans, the event attracts a wide variety of athletes. However, the competition and the postrace exhibition make it a fun event for the entire family.
The Pier Amphitheater serves as the venue for the post-race festivities where you will find activities for children and variety of vendors for adult spectators and athletes.
For the past few years the club has commissioned local artist, Bill Richardson, to create the design for the event t-shirts. His unique designs make the t-shirt one of the highlights of the events. As one participant stated, she competes every year just for the t-shirt! The event is also made possible by several sponsors who support the event. Their company logos share a canvas with the highly sought after Pier Swim t-shirts.
Last years live entertainment was a nice addition and the music will be back again to keep the crowd rocking. So this Labor Day come out to the Oceanside Pier as an athlete or a spectator and support the Oceanside Swim Club.
Interested parties can register online and find more information about the event at labordaypierswim.com.