More than a hundred swimmers braved the cold and swam across the Meuse on Sunday for the 54th edition of the Winter River Crossing. The first dives took place at 10:15 and the event ended three hours later.
The start was on the Quai de Compiègne, with swimmers crossing to Quai d’Arona on the opposite bank. A large crowd of spectators gathered to cheer participants – many of whom had come from far afield. The chilly swimmers were welcomed with hot drinks and peket – an eau de vie typical of Wallonia.
It usually only takes a few minutes for participants to cover the 120-metre body of water that flows between banks. All those taking part were required to provide proof of fitness.
People swim in the Meuse river in Huy during the traditional winter event on Sunday 19 February 2023. BELGA PHOTO LAURENT CAVENATI
This year the water was 7°C and the current relatively weak, compared to other editions. “Compared to other years, it’s almost warm but I wouldn’t have stayed in the water for an hour,” smiled Simon Dierick, a regular of this traditional bath. Dierick has made the crossing in near-zero water temperatures: “in 2014, I remember it was 2 degrees,” recalled the seasoned swimmer.
Organisers hailed the event a success.
