The Mekong River Swim draws enthusiasts from around the world who make a pilgrimage to the Prek Leap Agricultural College just to conquer the mighty Mekong river. All in good fun but with plenty of prizes and a myriad of smiling faces, the Mekong River Swim has become increasingly popular since it's humble beginnings back in 1995.
The 12th Annual Mekong River Swim will be held on Sunday, April 8th at the Prek Leap Agricultural College.
The swim is open to anyone wishing to participate. Last year over 120 swimmers from 19 countries joined the event and it was enjoyed by a large contingent of enthusiastic spectators. Competitors will swim 650 meters across the Mekong, and return to the starting point by boat. Spectator boats will be available for those who prefer a more leisurely crossing. After the swim there will be a lucky draw for all swimmers.
Registration starts on the swim site at 7:45 am, and the swim at 9:00 am. There will be a boat leaving at 7:30 am across from the FCC that goes directly to the site.
Registration
Pre-registration is possible at Java Café (#56e1, Sihanouk Blvd) or by sending an email to mekongriverswim [at] yahoo [dot] com
To enter the swim is $10 for foreigners and $3 for Khmer. This includes the boatride out to the location and back, drinks, food and a t-shirt.
Registration on the swim site starts at 7:45 am.
Volunteering
The Mekong River Swim is organised by volunteers. On the day of the event, we can always use some extra hands. Volunteering doesn't mean that you won't be able to swim! If you are interested in helping out on the day of the event, please let us know through mekongriverswim [at] yahoo [dot] com.
Location
A boat will leave across from the FCC on Sisowath Quay at 7:30 am, and it's expected back in town around 12:00. To reserve your places on the boat, please send an email to mekongriverswim [at] yahoo [dot] com">mekongriverswim [at] yahoo [dot] com
Of course you can also head out with your own transport. The Agricultural College is located in Prek Leap on the Chroy Changvar peninsula. It's about 5 kilometers over the Japanese Bridge on Highway #6 on your right hand side. You will see a large banner announcing the location.
The swim starts from the northeast corner of campus: turn left at the end of the soccer field and then right at the dorms at the edge of campus.