Circuito Paulista de Maratonas Aquáticas — Paraibuna

On the morning of March 29, 2026, the quiet streets of Paraibuna will stir well before sunrise, as the local community prepares for the arrival of swimmers from across the state. The town, sitting at an altitude of 635 meters, has become a regular host for the Maratona Aquática Igor de Souza, an organizer known for choosing technical, open-water settings that demand respect for the inland geography. Locals gather near the waterfront, familiar with the ritual of the buoys being laid out, while the athletes—many of whom return year after year—navigate the transition from the town’s colonial-style center to the edge of the water.

The conditions of the reservoir

The Represa de Paraibuna serves as the primary arena for the race, offering a vast expanse of calm, freshwater conditions. Unlike coastal events where currents dictate the pacing, here the challenge lies in the navigation of the reservoir’s expansive basin. Swimmers often find that the water remains consistent, though the early morning air at this latitude can be crisp, influencing body temperature regulation before the start signal. The organizers manage the logistics with a focus on safety, utilizing support boats to ensure that the wide, open stretches are monitored throughout the duration of the swim. Participants should anticipate a course that tests steady rhythm and sighting, as the geography of the reservoir includes subtle turns around the natural features of the shoreline. By the time the final swimmers reach the finish, the sun has usually climbed high enough to illuminate the surrounding hills, marking the end of the race within the stillness of the Paulista interior.