San Remo Channel Challenge 2027

The San Remo Channel Challenge, hosted by the Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club on February 6, 2027, stands as Victoria's premier aquathon event. This iconic race kicks off at noon with swimmers diving into Westernport Channel from San Remo’s mainland shore to Newhaven on Phillip Island—a distance of 550 meters across the channel.
Competitors must navigate the strong tidal flow during slack water conditions, making this swim a true test of endurance and timing. Upon reaching the sandy shores of Newhaven, participants transition barefoot into running shoes before embarking on a scenic 2-kilometer run back to San Remo via the picturesque Phillip Island Bridge. The final stretch in town's main street is lined with cheering crowds, creating an electrifying atmosphere for runners as they sprint towards the finish line.
While the event itself celebrates athleticism and community spirit, it also serves as a major fundraiser for Woolamai Beach SLSC, supporting volunteer patrols at both Woolamai Beach and Smiths Beach. The day-long festival includes market stands, food vendors, live music, and other festivities that make this an enjoyable experience even for spectators.
Competitors can earn points across three events in the Bass Coast Summer Series to vie for overall category series prizes. This year’s Channel Challenge also features $3,000 in cash awards along with another $3,000 worth of products and services distributed among junior, senior, open, and local competitors by age group.
Participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt upon registration; early selection ensures availability of preferred sizes.