P.O.W.E.R. Challenge — Piranhas Open Water Extreme Race · September 5, 2026
I acknowledge that open water swimming is an inherently dangerous activity involving risks including but not limited to: drowning, near-drowning, physical contact with other swimmers, marine life encounters (including sea nettles and jellyfish), ocean currents, wave action, exposure to sun and heat, hypothermia, equipment failure, and other hazards inherent to swimming in the open ocean off Pompano Beach, Florida. I voluntarily assume all risks associated with my participation in the P.O.W.E.R. Challenge — Piranhas Open Water Extreme Race.
In consideration of being permitted to participate in the P.O.W.E.R. Challenge, I hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless Pompano Piranhas, Inc. (a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization), its officers, directors, employees, coaches, volunteers, sponsors, the City of Pompano Beach, Pompano Beach Ocean Rescue, the Event Director, officials, safety personnel, and all other persons and entities associated with this event (collectively, the "Released Parties") from any and all claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising from or related to any loss, damage, injury, or death that may be sustained by me as a result of my participation in this event.
I certify that I am physically fit and have sufficiently trained for participation in this event. I acknowledge that a coach must certify on the release form that I can complete the race. I have not been advised by a physician to avoid strenuous physical activity. I consent to receive medical treatment which may be deemed advisable in the event of injury, accident, or illness during the event. I understand that the Medical Director (Dr. Kimpel) and first responders (Pompano Beach Ocean Rescue / Pompano Beach Fire Department) will be present but that I am ultimately responsible for my own health and well-being.
I agree to follow all instructions given by race officials, lifeguards, and safety personnel. I understand that six (6) professional beach lifeguards will be in the water during the races on kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis, and that the City of Pompano Beach provides lifeguards at eight beach towers along the race area. I understand that the course is clearly marked with buoys and I will follow the designated route. I understand that whistles and a small red flag will be used by officials to notify me of infractions. I agree that the Event Director, in conjunction with the Head Referee, may modify race conditions as deemed necessary for safety.
I understand that swimmers not completing the race course within 30 minutes of the first athlete to cross the finish line will be notified that the race is over and must leave the water at that time. My results will show as Did Not Finish (DNF) and I will not be eligible for awards.
I understand that inclement weather or unsafe water conditions may cause delays or cancellation of one or more races. The Meet Director, Independent Safety Monitor, or Meet Referee may cancel or postpone races at their discretion. In the event of cancellation due to weather, there will be no refunds. I understand that the month of April typically offers calm conditions with offshore winds but that wave buildup is possible.
I understand that open water swims are subject to the presence of sea life. While sea nettles are not usually a problem at this time of year, some may be present. I am encouraged to use Sea Safe Sunscreen containing sea nettle repellent. If I decide not to swim because of the presence of sea life at the time of the event, there will be no refund of entry fees.
I understand that a warm-up/warm-down area adjacent to the competition will be available under the supervision of a coach. If I am found in the water outside the designated area and not engaged in competition, I will be scratched from the meet regardless of whether I have completed my events.
I understand that entry fees (1.5 KM: $65.00, 0.5 KM: $40.00) are due before the start of competition. Late onsite entries are double the standard fee ($130.00 / $80.00). There will be no refunds for no-shows or scratches. I may swim a maximum of 2 events for the day.
I grant permission to Pompano Piranhas, Inc. and the event organizers to use photographs, video recordings, and any other media captured during the event for promotional, educational, and archival purposes without compensation.
I understand that I must check in at the registration booth at the Pompano Beach Pier (222 North Pompano Beach Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL 33062) between 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM on race day. I must complete a mandatory fingernail and toenail check, pick up my ankle strap timing chip (MyLap), swim race cap, and receive body numbering (race number vertically down the arms and horizontally across the upper back). I must provide an Emergency Contact phone number and complete and sign the race waivers at registration.
I understand that this event will be conducted in accordance with the current Open Water Rules and Regulations, except where rules therein are optional and exceptions are stated by the Event Director.
By checking the waiver box on the registration form, I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agree to all terms and conditions stated above. I am at least 18 years of age or have the consent of a parent/legal guardian.
Event Director: Jesse Vassallo · (787) 315-1529 · JVassallo@pompanopiranhas.com
Pompano Piranhas, Inc. · 222 North Pompano Beach Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL 33062