Chicago River Swim returns after nearly a century, raises funds for ALS research as UIC says it is safe to swim in it

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Dozens of qualified swimmers jumped into the Chicago River on Sunday morning.

The Chicago River Swim marked the return of competitive open-water swimming in the river in nearly a century.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Organizers have been conducting safety rehearsals, testing lifeguard support on kayaks, and unveiling the inflatable finish line.

The UIC School of Public Health has been testing the water for the past three weeks and says the water quality has been good and is well below the EPA guidelines.

Organizers said 263 athletes competed in a one- or two-mile course on the river to raise funds for ALS research and youth swimming lessons.

In the women's division, Olivia Smoliga, 30 from Tempe Arizona won the non-wet suit race.

Sixty-ye