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 19TH, 2026
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.
We are very proud to announce that, through our partnership with the Sara Schottenstein Foundation, all proceeds from this swim will be donated to Stand Up To Cancer. This organization has been funding collaborative, multidisciplinary multi-institutional cancer research teams since 2008.
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 19th, 2026
- 1.25mi race
- 150 swimmers
- Team registration available! Use code TEAM2026 for $45 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
- $300 per swimmer or a team of 3 or more is $255 per swimmer
THE DETAILS
Please join us as we celebrate the life and accomplishments of our dear friend, Coach Pedro Ordenes. Coach Pedro was a pioneer in the sport of open water swimming. Among his many accomplishments are swimming the Strait of Magellan in 37°C water, swimming the English Channel solo and as part of a relay team and swimming from Alcatraz to San Francisco 1000 times! Coach Pedro passed away on July 4, 2024 after a two-year battle with cancer. We held our first Pedro Ordenes Memorial swim on September 27, 2025. It was a tremendous success and, thanks to the swimmers who participated, we were able to donate $8500.00 to Stand Up to Cancer in Pedro’s name. Thank you to the 115 people who participated in our inaugural swim. In 2026, we would like to have 150 swimmers participate and raise even more money for this worthwhile cause. Make sure to register early. This will be a day to celebrate and we are confident this event will sell out.
Tidal conditions on September 19, 2026 are predicted to be very mild. This swim will be supported by experienced paddlers, lifeguards, motorized boat pilots, EMTs 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.
Pedro Ordenes Memorial Alcatraz | San Francisco Swim
