Weekly Swimming Highlights: Key Events and Updates 09/14/2026

Over the past week, several notable events have occurred in the world of swimming:

Chicago River Swim Event

The Chicago River Swim event is returning this month with a new feature called “The Big Jump,” offering participants a chance to jump into the river for a $500 fee. Scheduled for September 18 at 10 a.m., this event allows individuals to experience swimming in the Chicago River, once one of the nation’s most polluted waterways but now clean enough for sanctioned swimming activities. The fee supports ALS research and youth swimming programs. Though unsupervised swimming in the river remains prohibited, the event is seen as a symbolic way to celebrate the river’s environmental recovery. (axios.com)

Lani Pallister’s Historic Victory

Australian swimmer Lani Pallister made history by defeating American legend Katie Ledecky in the 800m freestyle at the Pan Pacific Swimming Championships. Pallister completed the race in 8 minutes and 6.1 seconds, edging out Ledecky, who finished at 8:07.26. This victory marks the first time Ledecky has been defeated in the 800m freestyle at an international meet since 2010. (abc.net.au)

Kaylee McKeown’s Comeback Plans

Five-time Olympic champion Kaylee McKeown has expressed her determination to reclaim world records in the 50m backstroke and 100m backstroke. After missing the Commonwealth Games and Pan Pacific Championships due to glandular fever and a wrist injury, McKeown is focused on returning to peak form and surpassing the records that were broken during her absence. (abc.net.au)

Ilya Kharun’s U.S. Title

Canadian swimmer Ilya Kharun, in the process of switching his national affiliation to the United States, won the 50m butterfly at the Toyota USA Swimming National Championships. Kharun clocked a time of 22.59 seconds, defeating nine-time Olympic gold medalist Caeleb Dressel. This performance marks a significant achievement as Kharun transitions to representing the U.S. internationally. (nbcsports.com)

Highlights:

• Want to jump in the Chicago River? Here’s your chance, Published on Tuesday, September 08