Águas Abertas Brasília — MKS

In 1883, the Italian priest Saint John Bosco dreamt of a futuristic city rising near a lake, a vision that many locals believe foresaw the birth of Brasília. Today, that prophecy finds its echo in the modern silhouette of the capital, mirrored perfectly in the calm expanse of Lake Paranoá. As you prepare to enter these waters, you are navigating an artificial landscape that transformed the arid central plateau into a vital hub of life and sport. The lake, created by damming the Paranoá River, stretches out like a vast, irregular cove—a namesake derived from the Tupi words for 'sea' and 'cove'.

Navigating the capital's waters

As you strike out from the starting line, the perspective from the water is entirely different from the terrestrial view of the city. While pushing forward, you may spot the modernist white curves of the Palácio da Alvorada, the official presidential residence that stands as a silent sentinel on the shoreline. The lake’s environment is far from empty; below the surface, the water is a habitat for diverse species. It is not uncommon for keen-eyed swimmers to spot the small, timid jacaretinga, or to hear the sudden splash of a neotropic cormorant diving nearby. In these deeper channels, life carries on, and the memory of the past lingers in the submerged ruins of the Vila Amaury, a settlement built by the city's original workers that was intentionally flooded during the lake's creation in 1959.

Race day logistics

This annual event, organized by Mksesportes, challenges swimmers across three distinct distances. For those tackling the 2.4km crossing, the logistics are precise: a shuttle service carries participants from the club to the Parque da Asa Delta, ensuring that the start of the point-to-point journey remains efficient. Safety is managed through the logistical deployment of support kayaks and boats, a necessity in a lake that serves as a major artery for local recreational craft. Athletes should note that the rules regarding wetsuit usage are specific to the distance chosen, and it is mandatory to wear the provided silicone cap. Whether you are navigating the circuit buoys in the shorter 300m and 1km races or completing the full crossing, the water remains a central feature of Brasília’s athletic identity. Swimmers looking to build their calendar in the region might also consider the 7th Copa Brasil AA, which offers a different perspective on these waters just months before the August event. The race concludes back at the Clube Ascade, where the finish line marks not just the end of the swim, but a return to the heart of the city.