I’d like to invite you to a very special swimming competition. We’re not the organisers, but it’s still close to my heart – because in a way, it’s part of my own story too.
When I was a kid, the “Day of Challenge” was an important event for me. Back in the early ‘90s, it was a huge thing for every athlete. Everyone took part: running, cycling, whatever they liked. But at some point, we craved a bigger challenge… I don’t exactly remember whose idea it was to swim 10 km in the pool, but we did it! There were six of us (maybe a bit crazy), who thought it would be tough – but anyone who trained regularly could do it. Now, at 50, I’d probably hesitate… 😄 Especially because swimming that distance in a pool feels endless! And honestly, the distance itself sounds pretty intimidating too.
A few years ago, when I signed up for the OWT, I remembered this old swim and wondered whether to do 3 km or 9 km at the Gyékényes race. In the end, I chose the 3 km, finished it in about 48 minutes, and was absolutely exhausted!
Back then, there was no Cetrend, no race series – just us and the freezing cold water (because of course, on that day there was a technical problem at the pool, so the water was icy).
Now, 100 starts later, the organisers have invited us, the “founding swimmers”, to complete the distance together as a team for this anniversary event. If you come, we’ll share more about this special story and the spirit behind the race.
