VBLA 2026 Swim Series Race 1: Mile Swim

The Virginia Beach Lifeguard Association (501C-3) is ready to host its world famous Ocean Swim Series again in 2026. The goal of the races is to provide high level ocean swim competition for the experienced and competitive racers; while also providing a safe and comfortable experience to those ready to give open water swimming a try. In addition, the series celebrates, highlights, and supports today's surf rescue heroes staffing the lifeguard stands in Virginia Beach. 

Competitors may choose one, two, or all three races to compete in during the summer. Every racer will receive the 'must have' Race T-shirt, a bright swim cap, and other goodies yet to be determined. The race start coincides with the opening of the guarded day with additional staff monitoring the race from the water and the shoreline.

The 2026 Series Notes:

• No Race-Day Registration

• Awards may be distributed on site or at a later date.

• There will be two waves, Wave 1 is for those challenging for overall victories and  and Wave 2 will be those more relaxed or novice participants. Age group placement will be by time only, so Age Group champions can come from either wave. 

• Each Race will have different start and stopping points – the race descriptions has them now but they are subject to change and emails will be sent prior to each race with final instructions.
  

The VBLA Swim Series puts an emphasis on safety, fun, and promoting open water swimming to as many swimmers as possible.

[The Virginia Beach Lifeguard Association is a 501C-3 Non Profit local chapter of the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA), the national organization of open water lifesavers committed to reducing drowning and preventing injury in the aquatic environment. The VBLA is comprised mainly of current members and alumni of the Virginia Beach Lifesaving Service,and friends of the surf lifesaving community.

Each summer the VBLA completes its mission of promoting beach safety through multiple avenues. The VBLA has provided free public safety presentations to elementary schools, military commands and fortune 500 companies. VBLA members volunteer to monitor open water events that raise thousands of dollars for charities. Finally, VBLA hosts and participates in local, regional and national competitions to motivate guards to train harder and better work together to protect the citizens and visitors to Virginia Beach.]