Xi'an native swims across Bosphorus Strait

Liu Peng from Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi province, has just participated in the 35th Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swimming Race. He became the first athlete from Shaanxi to cross the Bosphorus Strait.

The Bosphorus Strait runs through the heart of Istanbul, serving as the boundary between Asia and Europe. The race is both a unique adventure and a challenging endeavor.

Liu Peng showcases his certificate for the 35th Bosphorus Cross-Continental Swimming Race. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

Over 2,600 athletes from more than 70 countries participated in the challenge, including 19 from China. The race started on the Asian side of the city and finished on the European side.

Liu Peng and an overseas participant pose for a group photo. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

Due to the extremely low water temperature, Liu's left leg suddenly started cramping halfway through the race. To complete the competition, he tried not to exert force with his left leg and let it rest for more than 10 minutes before it eased.

With no navigation boat to indicate the proper direction, the participants had to rely on their own judgment. When Liu was about 500 meters from the finish line, he swam in the wrong direction, crossing the endpoint from the other side.

Liu Peng excitedly holds the Chinese flag on a boat after completing the challenge. [Photo/Xi'an news network]

Once he realized his error, he swam against the current again and finally completed the challenge in 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 18 seconds.

He has announced that he will swim the Bosphorus Strait again in five years, that time with his son. "By then, my son will be 14 years old and eligible to participate. I will swim the Bosphorus Strait with my son, traveling from Asia to Europe once again!"