Swimming is the first portion of the triathlon. Each triathlete will complete a 300-yard swim in a lane appropriate for their swimming abilities. There will be a counter at each lane to make sure each triathlete completes a total of twelve lengths, or six laps. A lap is the distance from one end of the pool to the other end and back again — in other words, a "50."

• Each triathlete must complete 12 lengths, or 6 complete laps
• If a swimmer in your his or her lane touches a triathlete, the triathlete must let them pass without challenging them
• If a triathlete challenges a passing swimmer or does not let them pass, the triathlete will be given a time penalty
• Triathletes cannot use lanelines to propel themselves