Stampone O'Brien Dilsheimer Holloway Escape the Cape Triathlon - 1 Mile Open Water Swim

The sensation of weightlessness defines the start of this race, as you plunge 12 feet from the deck of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry into the currents of the Delaware Bay. Once the initial adrenaline dissipates, you settle into a stroke rhythm dictated by the massive waterway that connects North Cape May to Lewes. Looking toward the shore, you pass the expanse of the Higbee Beach, a quiet stretch of coastal dunes and marshes that serves as a vital sanctuary for migratory birds. This is the same environment where the Kechemeche tribe of the Lenape Native Americans once traveled seasonally to gather resources from the sea, long before the modern concrete piers were established. The water here feels heavy with historical significance; in 1609, the explorer Henry Hudson navigated these same channels, grounding his ship just north of the cape to reconnoiter the land. Swimming through this stretch offers a perspective on the geography that only those traversing the bay can truly grasp, tracing the final boundary before the river yields to the Atlantic Ocean.

Race Day Logistics

The Stampone O'Brien Dilsheimer Holloway Escape the Cape Triathlon is an annual event that draws its distinct character from the logistical challenge of the ferry-based start. The 1-mile open water swim functions as a standalone event within the larger triathlon program, requiring precise timing to align with the ferry schedule and bay conditions. While the swim itself is a test of open-water navigation, athletes are supported by extensive water safety protocols provided by the organizing team at DelMo Sports. The course is designed for efficiency, allowing participants to finish near the transition zones that often weave through the sandy terrain of the coastline. The registration process covers a comprehensive athlete package including a long-sleeve tech shirt and a custom finisher medal, acknowledging the commitment required for such a unique aquatic entry. Beyond the water, the heritage of the region is felt in sites like the Town Bank area, where historically significant structures like the Owen Coachman House—once home to a free Black landowner in the 19th century—stand as reminders of the area's complex social history. The event manages the inherent unpredictability of the bay through rigorous planning, ensuring that the spectacle of the 12-foot jump transitions smoothly into a focused, competitive swim.