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Race Schedule & Entry Fees
| Distance | Date | Start Time | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100m Backstroke | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 100m Breaststroke | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 100m Butterfly | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 100m Freestyle | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 200m Backstroke | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 200m Breaststroke | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 200m Butterfly | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 200m Freestyle | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 200m Individual Medley | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 400m Backstroke | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 400m Breaststroke | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 400m Butterfly | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 400m Freestyle | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 400m Individual Medley | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 4 x 50m Freestyle Relay | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 4 x 50m Medley Relay | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 50m Backstroke | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 50m Breaststroke | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 50m Butterfly | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 50m Freestyle | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
| 800m Freestyle | Sat, 10 Oct | TBA | $75 |
Event Details
About This Event
Alice Springs Masters Games is Australia's longest-running Masters Games, 19th edition in 2026. Features more than 25 sports including Athletics, Run/Walk (Road/Path/Park, Off Road/Trail, Track categories), Cycling, Mountain Biking. 2026 adds Pickleball and Bridge. AFL legend Nathan Buckley is Ambassador. Wednesday Oct 14 is rest day for athletes to explore Alice Springs and surroundings. Runs Oct 10-17.
Course Description
The Alice Springs Masters Games swimming events take place in the 50-metre outdoor pool at Alice Springs Aquatic Centre, offering excellent competition conditions in the heart of Central Australia. Swimmers will compete across all four competitive strokes—freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke, and butterfly—with distances ranging from 50m sprints to 800m endurance events. Individual medley races test versatility across all strokes, while relay events bring teams together for exciting head-to-head competition. The outdoor setting provides a unique racing environment with clear desert skies overhead. Competition runs from Saturday 10 October through to Friday 16 October 2026, with sessions typically starting at noon. This is Australia's longest-running Masters Games, celebrating its 19th edition in 2026 and welcoming swimmers aged 25 and over across 14 age divisions.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Alice Springs Aquatic Centre is located in central Alice Springs and is easily accessible by car with parking available on-site. If you're staying in town, the venue is within walking or cycling distance from most accommodation options. For those driving from further afield, Alice Springs is approximately 1,500km south of Darwin and 1,500km north of Adelaide along the Stuart Highway. Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before your event to allow time for warm-up and check-in. The centre is well-signposted from the main town centre.
Weather & What to Pack
October in Alice Springs offers ideal conditions for outdoor swimming, with daytime temperatures ranging from 22-32°C and clear, sunny skies typical of this time of year. Morning temperatures can be cooler (around 12-15°C), but by noon when swimming sessions begin, conditions are warm and pleasant. The desert climate means very low humidity and minimal rainfall, though sun protection is essential—bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for between events. The outdoor pool environment can be warm during afternoon sessions, so stay well-hydrated throughout the day. October marks the beginning of Alice Springs' peak season with comfortable temperatures perfect for competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age to compete in swimming at the Masters Games?
Swimmers must be at least 25 years old as of 31 December 2026 to compete. Age divisions range from 25-29 up to 90+, with 14 age groups available to ensure fair competition.
How many events can I enter?
There's no limit on the number of swimming events you can enter. The $75 swimming entry fee covers participation in as many individual and relay events as you'd like to compete in, plus the Games Entry Fee.
Are there qualifying times required?
No qualifying times are required. The Alice Springs Masters Games welcomes swimmers of all abilities, from recreational swimmers to competitive masters athletes. The focus is on participation and camaraderie alongside competition.
When do swimming registrations close?
All sport registrations close on Friday, 11 September 2026. Late registrations may be possible by contacting the Games office directly, subject to availability. Register early to secure your spot.
Can I participate in other sports as well as swimming?
Absolutely! The Games features more than 25 sports including athletics, cycling, mountain biking, triathlon, and newly added pickleball. You pay the Games Fee once, then individual sport fees for each sport you enter. Wednesday 14 October is a rest day for all sports.
Last updated: 27 December 2025