If you really want a “signature event” to cap off your summer, it’s hard to beat the Alcatraz Challenge, which takes place in San Francisco Bay on August 23, 2008.
I did the swim/run in 2006, and I can tell you that it is an exceptionally well organized event and a total blast to do. I even tied a waterproof disposable camera to my wetsuit lanyard and got some fantastic “water level” shots:
But you had best act soon – I just checked out the registration page, and they already have over 330 swimmers signed up! From what I recall, they typically limit it to around 600 swimmers. So check it out before it’s too late!