I ONCE read a blog thread asking if anyone had ever been groped in a triathlon open-water swim. The closest thing I've ever experienced was almost getting kicked in the teeth by the guy swimming in front of me. But regardless of what's going on under all that heavy splashing, the Catfish Open Water Swim is the ticket for swimmers and it will be taking place this Sunday, July 20, at the Steven's Creek Reservoir in Cupertino. The Catfish is certainly an event in its own class. Unfortunately for swimmers used to the glassy surface of the local pool, there will be no flip-turns or breaks at the wall every 25 or 50 yards—it's a constant swim that will carry you over a 1.2 mile or 2.4 mile distance. There will be no lane dividers so at best it will feel as if you were swimming through a choppy water aerobics class the entire way. The competition will include a wetsuit division if one is so inclined to use the advantage of buoyancy. Ages 16 to 60 and over are welcome to participate, and spectators will have plenty to keep them occupied. There will be post-event festivities and a sports expo on location.

For more info and registration go to www.japroductions.com/catfish.

Send a letter to the editor about this story.