Chilling Thrills: Winter Swimming Extravaganza in Guangxi, Southern China!

Individuals swimming across the Yongjiang River in Nanning city, located in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on Jan. 1, 2025. (Photo provided by the Nanning Sports Bureau)

A winter swimming competition took place at a segment of the Yongjiang River in Nanning city, located in south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on the morning of Jan. 1, 2025. More than 3,000 swimming aficionados from various regions of the country took part in the event, bringing an abundance of energy and a festive atmosphere to the city for the New Year.

The event was collaboratively organized by the Nanning Sports Bureau and the Nanning sports general association. The youngest competitor was merely 8 years old, while the oldest was 79.

This image depicts a participant swimming across the Yongjiang River in Nanning city, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on Jan. 1, 2025. (Photo provided by the Nanning Sports Bureau)

At 9:30 a.m., the swimmers, separated into four groups, commenced their swim from a platform on the northern bank of the Yongjiang River towards the southern bank. As they entered the water one after another, they created splashes and joyous sounds, establishing a lively and spirited environment.

To ensure safety for all participants, 120 rescue paddleboards, along with the Nanning Red Cross rescue team, 60 safety personnel, and medical teams, were prepared and on standby.

Aerial shot shows competitors traversing the Yongjiang River in Nanning city, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on Jan. 1, 2025. (Photo provided by the Nanning Sports Bureau)

Each participant received a “green leaf” to jot down their New Year aspirations prior to departure. They then swam across the river while holding the leaves. Upon reaching the destination, they hung the leaves on trees, imparting the city with endless energy and vitality.

Nanning is acknowledged as one of the birthplace regions for winter swimming in China. The winter swimming event on New Year’s Day marked the kick-off for the coming year of fitness endeavors in Nanning. An official from the Nanning Sports Bureau expressed hope that the event, radiating enthusiasm, would bolster public confidence in the numerous sports activities slated for this year.

Aerial image shows swimmers crossing the Yongjiang River in Nanning city, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on Jan. 1, 2025. (Photo provided by the Nanning Sports Bureau)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Hongyu)