Beyond The Breakers returns for third year

Outdoor Swimmer contributor Elaine Howley joins the speaker line-up

One of New England’s leading open water swimming gatherings will return this November as Beyond The Breakers heads into its third year with a programme covering everything from technique and race strategy to ice swimming, safety and marine science.

The annual summit takes place on 14 November 2026 at Bentley University in Waltham, Massachusetts, bringing together swimmers, coaches, researchers and event organisers for a day dedicated to all aspects of open water swimming. Organisers say the event is designed to appeal to everyone from newcomers taking their first strokes outside the pool to experienced marathon swimmers planning major challenges.

Now established as a regular fixture on the New England open water calendar, Beyond The Breakers has built a reputation for bringing together a diverse range of voices from across the sport. This year’s programme features speakers covering open water technique, nutrition, injury prevention, strength training, race preparation, triathlon, safety and cold water swimming.

Among those contributing will be Outdoor Swimmer contributor Elaine Howley, alongside a range of coaches, athletes and experts from across the open water community.

A new addition for 2026 is the BTB Swim Clinic, which takes place on 15 November. The three-hour session will give swimmers the opportunity to work with experienced coaches on stroke development, open water skills and race strategy in a small-group environment. Places are limited.

Speaking ahead of the event, Craig Lewin, founder of Beyond The Breakers, said the aim has always been to connect open water swimmers with leading voices in the sport and help grow the community through education and shared experience.

Further details, including the full programme and ticket information, are available through the event website.

Image: Helen Cogan