Traditional mass swim across the Danube River to take place for the 68th time

Every summer, at the height of the season, the Bulgarian town of Svishtov hosts a mass swim across the Danube River. The event is organised by the Mass Sports and Recreation Unit of Svishtov Municipality in partnership with the Bulgarian Red Cross and with the support of the Ministry of Defence. Last year, a total of 152 swimmers took part in the initiative.

The 68th edition of the traditional Danube crossing is scheduled for the early morning of July 25 at the Pametnitsite locality near Svishtov. Before taking part, all participants undergo a medical examination on site and sign a declaration confirming that they are fit to swim.

Following the medical check, the swimmers are transported by pontoons to a point near the Romanian town of Zimnicea. From there, they set off in groups to swim the nearly one-kilometre stretch back to the Bulgarian bank of the Danube.

All participants receive certificates of participation. Special awards are also presented to the oldest and youngest swimmers, the largest group, and the families who complete the river crossing together.

Editor: Tsvetana Toncheva