Swim Across America returns to Daytona International Speedway for second annual charity swim

Swim Across America will bring its Daytona open water fundraiser back to Daytona International Speedway on Dec. 5, with Olympians Ryan Lochte, Brooke Bennett, Paige Zemina Northcutt and Jarrod Shoemaker set to join. The event is designed to raise money for pediatric cancer research and The NASCAR Foundation during the CLASH Endurance Daytona festival weekend.

Why it matters: - The Daytona swim raises money for pediatric cancer research and The NASCAR Foundation. - The event brings fundraising into one of racing’s most recognizable venues, which can help draw swimmers, donors and attention. - The weekend also folds cancer research fundraising into a broader endurance sports festival that attracts elite athletes, families and first-time participants.

What happened: - Swim Across America will return to Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, Dec. 5, for its second annual Swim Across America - Daytona Open Water Swim. - The event is part of the CLASH Endurance Daytona Triathlon Festival Weekend, set for Dec. 4-6, 2026. - The swim starts at 9:30 a.m. in Lake Lloyd at Daytona International Speedway. - The program includes a 1-mile swim and a 100-meter Dolphin Dash. - Participants can register at more information. - Olympic guests include Ryan Lochte, Brooke Bennett, Paige Zemina Northcutt and triathlete Jarrod Shoemaker.

The details: - Lochte will swim the 1-mile event with Team FRP, led by Charlie Lydecker and his son, Andrew. - Lochte is also scheduled to sign autographs at the Swim Across America tent on Dec. 4 from 10 a.m. to noon. - Northcutt is a longtime Swim Across America supporter and angel swimmer at events nationwide. - Northcutt was diagnosed with colon cancer in January 2026. - The 1-mile swim requires experienced open water swimmers. - Participants must raise at least $400, or $200 for swimmers 18 and younger, by event day. - The 100-meter Dolphin Dash is open to all ages. - Dolphin Dash registration costs $50 and does not require fundraising minimums. - Top individual and team fundraisers will be recognized on Daytona International Speedway’s winner’s podium. - Charlie Lydecker is chairman and CEO of Foundation Risk Partners. - Charlie Lydecker is a 14-time national lifeguard champion, a U.S. Masters Swimming competitor and an Escape from Alcatraz swim winner. - Andrew Lydecker is a former high school swim captain who has competed at national lifeguard championships and completed an Ironman in Texas.

Between the lines: - The event leans on athlete star power and a high-profile venue to widen awareness for cancer research fundraising. - Lochte’s Daytona ties add a local connection that may help drive turnout and visibility. - Northcutt’s diagnosis gives the cause a direct personal link for participants and donors. - The partnership among Swim Across America, CLASH Endurance and The NASCAR Foundation ties endurance sport to community and youth-focused philanthropy.

What's next: - The CLASH Endurance Daytona festival opens Friday, Dec. 4, with the Jingle Jog 5K at ONE Daytona. - Jingle Jog participants can join Team Jingle Jog to fundraise for Swim Across America. - Other weekend events include sprint, Daytona Distance and Middle Distance triathlons and duathlons, aquabike races, the USA Paratriathlon National Qualifier, the Redline Relay cycling competition and Test Track. - Swimmers, volunteers and donors can register, help or contribute through the Daytona event page. - The full CLASH Endurance schedule is available at the Daytona schedule. - Swim Across America also accepts participation through its SAA My Way option.

The bottom line: - Swim Across America is turning Daytona International Speedway into a charity swim stage again, using the venue’s profile and a slate of Olympic names to raise money for cancer research.