The 2024 Xin'an River summer swimming international challenge on Aug 25 attracts over 2,000 swimmers from 11 provinces. [Photo/WeChat account: JDFB64734823]

The 2024 Xin'an River summer swimming international challenge took place in Jiande on Aug 25, attracting over 2,000 swimmers from 11 provinces, including Zhejiang, Anhui, and Fujian, as well as international participants from the United States, Russia, Latvia, and Kazakhstan.

The event featured two key competitions: a group endurance swim and an individual endurance swim, offering participants the chance to embrace nature and test their limits in the cool 17 C river waters.

The opening ceremony was filled with excitement, including thrilling performances like water flyboarding, displays of traditional Yanzhou shrimp lanterns, and demonstrations of the ancient martial art of Tiangang Boxing. Popular fitness coach Liu Genghong, also known as Will Liu, led a warm-up session with participants, setting the stage for the day's competitions.

The group race, held in the morning, drew the most attention, as teams braved the fast-flowing waters of the Xin'an River. The competition tested not only swimmers' endurance but also their mental resilience in the face of the river's chilling temperatures.

This event is more than just a sports competition – it's a celebration of Jiande's spirit and cultural heritage. Originally known as the Xin'an River endurance challenge and held annually since 1988, the competition has become a hallmark of the city's sports and tourism integration efforts. Now in its 23rd edition, it continues to attract swimmers from across the globe, promoting green, healthy living while showcasing the city's natural beauty and rich traditions.

People enjoy swimming in the Xin'an River. [Photo/WeChat account: JDFB64734823]