Competitions

Races and rules

The traditional competition distance is 25 meters of breaststroke, with the head not allowed to go underwater. Races are held in age categories, with smaller competitions having age groups every 10 years and larger ones every 5 years; both men and women compete, and timing is used. In the competition categories, there are also 4 x 25m relays, which must include at least one woman on the team. There are three relay categories, where the participants’ ages are summed to create the Under 200 years category, the 200-239 years category, and the Over 240 years category.Winter swimming competitions also have categories for Norpat, who swim 25m without timing, and for Kuutit, who are those just taking a dip. In the national championships, there are also 25m freestyle and 50m breaststroke events. In the world championships, events now include breaststroke and freestyle distances from 25m to 450m. A head covering is mandatory for swimmers, while shoes and gloves are prohibited in the competition categories but allowed in others.

1. Kaupinoja races
Kaupinoja hosts two annual competitions: Kaupin Kuohut in early November and the Pirkanmaa Winter Swimming Event in early April. In these competitions, participants swim 25m breaststroke in the competitive categories, as well as in the Norpat and Kuutit categories, and in relays. The Pirkanmaa Winter Swimming Event traditionally features the Turku-Tampere relay. Participation in these competitions is free for members of the Tampereen Talviuimarit and open for anybody interested. Remember to register in advance.

2. National championships
The national championships (SM-kisat) are held annually at the end of February or the beginning of March. The Tampere Winter Swimmers traditionally participate in large numbers. The association covers the costs for each participating member for up to 3 events, as well as any potential relay participation. We also arrange transportation and book accommodations as needed; however, these costs will be borne by the participants themselves.

National championship rules https://www.suomenlatu.fi/tapahtumia/talviuinnin-sm-kilpailut/saannot.html

3. World championships
The world championships (MM-kisat) are held every two years. The Tampere Winter Swimmers also cover the costs for their members participating in these competitions for up to 3 events, as well as any potential relay participation. We will also explore travel options and arrange accommodations, which will be paid for by the participants themselves.
World championship rules  https://iwsa.world/world-championship/rules/