Avola Openwater

A celebration of open-water swimming in Avola

Avola Openwater is one of the most anticipated events of the sporting summer in the town of Avola, on the south-eastern coast of Sicily, in the province of Syracuse. For one day, the event transforms the Lido Eden beach in Piazza Esedra into a large open-water swimming village, where competitive athletes, masters, and enthusiasts gather to swim in the clear waters of the Ionian Sea.

The three scheduled events

The day features three distinct races, designed for athletes of different levels and specialties:

• 5 km Classic — the long-distance event, FIN-approved, reserved for the most trained swimmers.
• Mile (1,852 meters) Sprint — the middle distance, also FIN-approved, ideal for those seeking a fast and intense race.
• 3x800-meter fast relay — the team event, in ASI format, which adds a touch of excitement and teamwork to the day.

The format allows participants to sign up for a single event or combine multiple races, with the most ambitious swimmers having the opportunity to tackle both the 5 km and the Mile on the same day.

Part of the Grand Prix Sicilia Openwater

Avola Openwater is one of the stages of the Grand Prix Sicilia Openwater, the regional open-water swimming circuit organized by ASD Trirock of Syracuse, now in its eleventh edition. The circuit visits some of the most picturesque seaside locations on the island, from Donnalucata to Brolo, from Syracuse to Milazzo, and up to Marina de Ragusa. The Avola stage represents one of the final events of the season, held in early September.

An opportunity to discover Avola and its coast

Beyond the competitive aspect, the event is an excellent opportunity to experience the Avola coastline, famous for its sea and the renowned Avola almond. Lido Eden offers a golden sandy beach, beach services, and a dining area where you can enjoy typical Sicilian dishes, making the race day a moment of conviviality and vacation for athletes and their companions alike.