Selection Cohort 2029

Arch2Arc has grown significantly in recent years. Interest now far exceeds the number of available annual slots.

Previously, we operated through a general application list. Over time, this became an extensive list of names without meaningful opportunity to observe athletes properly. This created uncertainty for athletes and frustration around progression.

The Development Cohort replaces that model with a structured, transparent pathway.

Athletes are now observed over time, expectations are clear, and selection decisions are made based on demonstrated readiness — not position on a list.

This protects the integrity of the challenge and ensures that those selected are truly prepared.

No.

Each Cohort begins with 24 athletes. Through observation and performance over time, up to 12 athletes are selected for Arch2Arc.

Selection is based on readiness, conduct and observed behaviour under fatigue and pressure.

No.

The Development Cohort is a structured observation and development process — not a queue or first-come, first-served system.

Cohort 2029 is open now.

Intake closes at the end of May 2026, at which point the full cohort will be confirmed and the formal development cycle begins.

Selection for Arch2Arc 2029 will take place in December 2027.

• One annual 90-minute live cohort group call with the Arch2Arc team
• Access to the Cohort WhatsApp group (updates and discussions)
• Priority booking for Swim Camp and the Lanzarote Ultra
• Inclusion in the formal Arch2Arc selection pool
• Eligibility for reserve status (if applicable)
• Post-selection debrief and opportunity to apply for a future Cohort (if not selected)

The £250 Cohort fee is due within 7 days of being offered a place in the Cohort.

If payment is not received within this timeframe, the place may be offered to another athlete.

Swim Camp is not formally mandatory, but it plays an important role in immersion and observation.

Athletes who consistently engage in the Lanzarote environment — often more than once — tend to stand out.

Once you have a place in the A2A, the swim camp is an important part of your training.

The Lanzarote Ultra serves as the primary assessment environment for Arch2Arc selection.

In-person observation under fatigue and pressure is central to how readiness is assessed.

We recognise that travelling to Lanzarote represents a significant commitment, particularly for international athletes. However, selection decisions are based heavily on observed performance in comparable conditions.

In exceptional cases, where an athlete has demonstrated equivalent experience and conduct in similarly demanding environments, this may be taken into consideration at the discretion of the selection team.

Up to 12 athletes are selected annually for Arch2Arc.

In addition, up to 2 reserve places may be offered.
Reserves are athletes who meet the required standard and may be offered a place if a selected athlete withdraws.

Reserve status does not guarantee a place but reflects strong consideration within that selection cycle.

If you are not selected, you will be offered a debrief to discuss the decision and areas for further development.

Following this, you may:

• Be invited to apply for a future Development Cohort, or
• Be advised to gain further experience before reapplying.

Re-entry into a future Cohort is not automatic and will depend on demonstrated progress.

Yes.

Athletes who are not selected may apply for a future Development Cohort. Acceptance into a new Cohort is assessed based on development, conduct and overall readiness.

From 2029 onward, selection takes place exclusively through the Arch2Arc Development Cohort.

Not necessarily.

If an athlete is not selected, the requirement to repeat the Lanzarote Ultra will depend on individual circumstances, development and performance in the previous cycle.

In some cases, athletes may be encouraged to repeat the Ultra to demonstrate further progression. In others, continued development through Swim Camp and other relevant experience may be sufficient.

Each case is assessed individually as part of the debrief process.

he session includes a moderated Q&A, with questions submitted in advance to ensure relevance to the group.

Time permitting, there may be a short opportunity for additional live questions at the end of the call.

The session is designed to address general preparation and selection themes rather than individual coaching queries.

A recording will be shared with those unable to attend live.