Key Facts
• The Himeji Matogata Open Water Swimming (OWS) event debuted on July 6, 2025.
• Held at Matogata Beach in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan.
• 186 participants aged 10 to 70 joined from across Japan.
• Four race categories: 1 km, 3 km, 5 km, and Knockout Sprint.
• Knockout Sprint included a 1 km qualifier and 500-meter final.
• Courses were set 100 meters offshore, with loops of 1 km and 500 meters.
• Organized by Himeji City Swimming Association and Hyogo Swimming Federation.
• Aimed to promote OWS, with plans for Japan Swimming Federation recognition.
• Participants ranged from beginners to experienced athletes.
• A 10-year-old girl completed the 1 km race, expressing excitement for future events.
Summary
The inaugural Himeji Matogata Open Water Swimming event took place on July 6, 2025, at Matogata Beach in Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture. A total of 186 participants, aged 10 to 70, competed in four categories: 1 km, 3 km, 5 km, and the Knockout Sprint. The event, organized by the Himeji City Swimming Association and Hyogo Swimming Federation, aimed to promote open water swimming and plans to seek recognition from the Japan Swimming Federation in the future. The competition featured a calm, shallow course set 100 meters offshore, with loops of 1 km and 500 meters. Participants included both beginners and experienced swimmers, with notable performances such as a 10-year-old girl completing her first 1 km race. The event highlighted the unique challenges of open water swimming, such as adapting to waves, wind, and water temperature.
