In Charleston, the word Trident already holds power.
It’s stitched on college signs, printed on local nonprofits, and rooted in our connection to the sea.
This November, it takes on a new meaning — in motion.
The Charleston Trident Swim launches November 16, sending swimmers on a four-mile journey from the Maritime Center, through the harbor, around the Battery, and up to Brittlebank Park.
It’s not a fun float. It’s a cold, current-cutting, wetsuit-required challenge — built in the spirit of the U.S. Navy SEALs it honors.
Proceeds support the Navy SEAL Foundation, which serves active duty, retired, and fallen SEAL families.
A Challenge With Purpose
At the helm is Kathleen Wilson, Charleston’s open-water legend and longtime director of Swim Around Charleston.
Wilson designed the course to be “difficult, not impossible” — tough enough to test, but rewarding enough to finish. The harbor’s swirling tides and November chill will take care of the rest.
And the payoff? A route that doubles as a postcard — a moving view of the skyline, spires, and sea that define Charleston.
More Than Miles
Charleston joins Tampa, Boston, and Annapolis in a growing network of Frogman swims — endurance events that pair athletic grit with military gratitude.
Swimmers are coming from across the East Coast, drawn as much by the mission as the mileage. Each participant raises funds for SEAL families and takes on a challenge inspired by those who never back down.
This isn’t just about finishing a race. It’s about showing up — for those who serve, and for the community that surrounds them.
Safety First, Always
Every swimmer will have a kayaker companion, forming a moving “safety cocoon” with support from the Coast Guard, local fire departments, and volunteer rescue teams.
The biggest risk? The cold.
Not the creatures below — just the bite of November water.
Organizers are still seeking volunteer kayakers to help guide and guard the route.
(If that’s you, they’ll even help with kayak rentals.)
⚓ Built to Last
If all goes well, the Charleston Trident Swim could become a new Lowcountry tradition — part endurance race, part community tribute.
Because here in Charleston, surrounded by tides and defined by resilience, “difficult but not impossible” isn’t a warning.
It’s an invitation.
🗓️ Date: November 16
📍 Course: Charleston Maritime Center → Brittlebank Park
💻 Register by: October 31
🎯 Benefiting: The Navy SEAL Foundation
