Race for the Conch

Race for the Conch is one of the most highly anticipated sporting events on Providenciales.

Race for the Conch is an annual open water swim that takes place along the stretch of Grace Bay Beach near Club Med. It’s the largest sporting event of its kind on Providenciales and features races of varying lengths that draw amateur and seasoned swimmers from the islands and countries around the world.

Typically held on the last Saturday in June, Race for the Conch kicks off with the blowing of a conch horn from the launch (and return) point in front of Rickie's Flamingo Café. Athletes race into the sea and carve through the turquoise water to the turn buoys and back, competing for medals and trophies made from queen conch shells by local artists.

Race for the Conch also raises proceeds for a variety of local causes and organizations. Past beneficiaries of the money collected from race fees and sponsorships include the Turks and Caicos Reef Fund, learn-to-swim programs, and Project Inclusion Turks & Caicos. Usually, a large crowd gathers onshore to watch the race.

What Happens at Race for the Conch

The splash zone at Race for the Conch.

Race for the Conch is a morning event, with the first swimmers arriving at the beach before 7:00 AM. The event features three main open water swim competitions: a 2.4-mile (3.9 km) race, a 1-mile (1.6 km) race, and a 0.5-mile (0.8 km) race. Race for the Conch also hosts a separate 100-meter (328 ft) kids race for children 10 and under.

One of the advantages of this event for open water swimmers is the relatively small number of participants. Whereas in some open water swims you may be one of hundreds of swimmers, Race for the Conch swims typically average about 50 athletes per race.

Conch trophies are awarded to the top three men and women in each category. Each participant gets a medal made from a queen conch shell.

The event is certified by the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA), which has also named Race for the Conch one of the top 100 open water swimming races in the world.

Watching the Event

While there isn’t tons happening onshore during the races, Race for the Conch can be a fun event to attend as a spectator. On the beach, you can expect to see a few beach cabanas selling crafts and other items and hear speakers blaring music while the swimmers power through the warm, crystal-clear water offshore.

Race for the Conch is fairly easy to walk to if you’re staying at a beachfront hotel on the eastern side of Grace Bay Beach. The Tuscany on Grace Bay, The Venetian, and Club Med Turkoise are all within easy walking distance.

Above: All participants receive a conch medal, handcrafted by a local artist.   Top right:  Top left:  Rowdy Gaines, U.S. Olympic gold medalist swimmer, promoting Race for the Conch.   Bottom right:  Top right:  Professional marathon swimmer Yuko Matsuzaki promoting Race for the Conch in 2015.  

How to Participate

Junior open water swimmers participating in the children's race.

To participate in Race for the Conch as an athlete, you’ll have to register for the competition ahead of time. Swimmers can register for up to two races. A Race for the Conch swim cap is generally included in your registration, but you’ll need to bring your own swimsuit and goggles (an extra pair is recommended). Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen that doesn’t include chemicals that are harmful to local corals.

Certain equipment is prohibited during the race, like snorkels and fins, so check the competition rules ahead of time. Storage of personal items for racers is available. You’ll need to arrive at least one hour before your race to register and warm up.

How to Attend

A stand-up paddleboarder supervising swimmers during Race for the Conch.

Attending Race for the Conch as a spectator is free. If you’re planning to spend time at the beach to watch the races, it’s worth bringing a cooler with drinks and snacks, a few beach chairs, and plenty of sunscreen. Food is available at Rickie's Flamingo Café, but wait times can be long.

A hat and long-sleeve shirt are recommended to protect your skin from the hot sun.

Parking

The parking lot at Rickie’s generally fills up by 7:30 AM, after which the main road is the next best option for parking. If you’re staying nearby, consider walking along the beach to the event. Alternatively, you can arrange drop-off and pick-up with a private car or taxi.

Located in Grace Bay Beach

Grace Bay Beach is an exceptional and extensive white sand beach, located on the northern coast of the island of Providenciales. This world-famous beach is the center of tourism in the Turks and Caicos, and is home to many luxury hotels and restaurants.