On Saturday, the Czech Republic made history as 2,461 cold-water swimmers plunged into the icy waters of Most Lake, setting a new Guinness World Record for the largest polar bear dip. This spectacular achievement surpassed the previous record of 1,799 participants, set in Mielno, Poland, on February 15, 2015.
The brave participants, undeterred by freezing temperatures of 3.5 degrees Celsius (38.2 degrees Fahrenheit), came together to make this remarkable milestone possible. In order to meet the strict criteria set by Guinness World Records, swimmers were required to wear a bathing suit, submerge to at least waist depth, and stay in the water for a minimum of one minute.
The event was orchestrated by David Vencl, a renowned Czech freediver with a passion for cold-water swimming. Vencl, who set a world record in 2021 by swimming 80.9 meters under ice without a wetsuit, played a key role in mobilizing participants for the record-breaking attempt. His enthusiasm for the sport and its benefits helped inspire the large turnout.
Cold-water swimming, also known as “polar bear dipping,” holds deep cultural significance in the Czech Republic. Apart from being an invigorating activity, it is believed to have numerous health benefits, including improved circulation and enhanced immunity. As the sport has grown in popularity, winter swimming events have become a common occurrence in Czech communities.
The successful attempt at Most Lake has gained widespread media attention, highlighting the participants’ courage and marking a new chapter in the growing global movement of cold-water swimming. The achievement not only celebrates the participants’ bravery but also raises the bar for future record attempts in other nations.
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