Join us for our biggest event of the year – the annual race from Alcatraz Island to Aquatic Park, an exhilarating swim honoring the incredible legacy of our friend, Pedro Ordenes, who completed over 1,000 Alcatraz crossings. This event brings together hundreds of swimmers to make their own daring escape in the spirit of prisoners John and Clarence Anglin, and Frank Morris. On June 11, 1962, these prisoners broke through cell walls, navigated rooftops, climbed drainage pipes, and vanished into the frigid bay waters with makeshift life preservers, never to be seen again.
PEDRO ORDENES MEMORIAL ALCATRAZ
SEPTEMBER 27, 2025
Our largest event of the year to commemorate a larger than life swimmer: a classic race from Alcatraz to Aquatic Park in memory of 1,000+ Alcatraz swimmer Pedro Ordenes.
The 1.25-mile course challenges swimmers to brave the bay’s thrilling waters, navigating strong currents and unpredictable conditions in the shadow of Alcatraz Island. This race is more than just a test of endurance—it’s a tribute to the perseverance, grit, and history that make Alcatraz legendary. Swimmers of all levels, from seasoned open-water competitors to dedicated first-timers, are invited to share in this unforgettable experience. Embrace the adventure, and be a part of this extraordinary event that honors both Pedro’s inspiring achievements and the timeless lore of Alcatraz. Enjoy a team discount too!
AT A GLANCE
- September 27, 2025
- 1.25mi race
- 250 swimmers
- Team registration available! Use code TEAM2025 for $40 off your registration for a team of 3 swimmers or more
- Begins in the waters in front of Alcatraz
- Finishes at the Aquatic Park shoreline
THE DETAILS
Please join us to celebrate and remember the life and accomplishments of our dear friend, Coach Pedro. We have room for 250 swimmers, both recreational and racers. Is this your first Alcatraz crossing? What better way to do it than with 250 of your closest swimming friends? Are you keeping track of your number of crossings? Share your number with the crowd, give and get some inspiration when we talk about the number of crossings people have made. Are you here to race? Show off your skill and speed and let us celebrate your victory at our awards ceremony following the swim. This swim will be supported by an experienced team of kayakers, paddle boarders, boat pilots, lifeguards and the SFPD.
WHERE TO PARK & MEET
Garage parking is available at the Ghirardelli Square Parking Garage on Larkin, or the Anchorage Square Garage on Beach Street. Free Parking is available on Beach Street behind the Maritime Museum or at the end of Van Ness Avenue.
We meet at the bleachers at Aquatic Park.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Upon arrival, we will check you in and assign you a participant number. Once all of our participants have arrived, there will be a short briefing containing instructions about the swim. The briefing will cover the swim start, water conditions, course navigation and landmarks for sighting. We will also talk about safe behaviors during the swim. The information at the briefing is very important so please pay attention. Our team of kayakers is very experienced and will never be too far away for you to flag one of them down and ask a question during your swim.
WHAT TO BRING
- Suit or wetsuit
- Warm/dry clothes for after the swim
- Goggles
- Neoprene cap (optional)
- Small snack, water, and a warm beverage for recovery after the swim
- Towel
- Flip flops, light clothing for the 10-min walk to the boat
- Smile
- Memorable story to share with others about Coach Pedro
- Sense of adventure
We will supply a latex cap to all swimmers.
YOUNG SWIMMERS
Participants under the age of 8 are not eligible to swim in this event. Participants under 12-years of age must complete an evaluation with a San Francisco Swim coach at a Sunday morning or Thursday evening swim. At the evaluation, it will be determined whether additional safety features are needed for the swimmer. These features may include a personal “swim angel” or personal kayaker during the swim event. For underage swimmers coming from outside of the area, a signed evaluation from their certified swim coach stating that they are capable of completing this swim (with or without close guidance) is acceptable. If the underage swimmer is not approved for the swim, the registration fee will be refunded.
Contact us with any questions about younger swimmers.
PROUD PARTNER
Pedro Ordenes Memorial Alcatraz | San Francisco Swim
