Defending champion Noa Sakamoto of Honolulu will be among more than 700 swimmers expected to participate in the Waikiki Roughwater Swim on Monday.

The 2.384-mile course will start at Kaimana Beach and finish at Duke Kahanamoku Beach, near the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Race director Ted Sheppard said an unfavorable tide could make for a slow race Monday.

"The tide and current could be going against us, but it shouldn't be too bad," he said.

Sakamoto won last year's race in 43 minutes, 37.9 seconds. Emma Berry, a swimmer for the University of Hawai'i, won the women's division last year, but is not yet registered this year.

However, Sheppard said he expects several contenders — both men and women — to come from the UH team. He said the UH swimmers are expected to register today.

LACROSSE

FREE CLINIC SUNDAY

A free lacrosse clinic for youths will be Sunday at Kapi'olani Park from 2 to 4 p.m.

No experience in the sport is necessary. Players are asked to bring water, mouth guard and wear football or soccer cleats or sneakers.

For more information, contact the Aloha Youth Lacrosse Association at 548-0451 or e-mail info@alohalax.com.