Chicago Masters’ Big Shoulders 5K & 2.5K Open Water Swim

2025 marks the 34th year for Big Shoulders at Ohio Street Beach in Chicago. The race offers two distances to swimmers, 5K and 2.5K on a triangular course in a protected area called the “playpen” in Lake Michigan. The event is lifeguarded by Chicago Park District Lifeguards and boats, as well as the Chicago Fire Department marine unit. Proceeds to to the men’s and women’s swim teams at UIC, as well as the Alliance for the Great Lakes.