On Sunday 9 January 2022, I. PKO member Roman Havel organised a public introduction to cold-water swimming in Řež. Supported by the municipality of Husinec-Řež and ÚJV Řež, the event attracted around thirty I. PKO swimmers and plenty of visitors. Even the weather played its part: a light snowfall on Sunday morning gave the gathering a proper winter atmosphere. The air temperature was 0.5°C.
After a short introduction and our traditional group greeting, participants changed and gradually entered the 4.5°C water. With a strong current running, most opted for a 250-metre downstream swim. Some tried swimming against the current, while adventurous members of the public took a short dip near the finish. Everyone then headed to the ÚJV Řež facilities for hot drinks and soup.
Once the swimmers had warmed up and eaten, club chair Tomáš Prokop skilfully led a discussion. There were some interesting questions, and the answers often taught even long-standing cold-water swimmers something new.
The event was excellently organised. Praise is due to the organiser, the superb facilities and the closing discussion. Thanks also to all our fellow swimmers for supporting and promoting our sport.
Photo gallery: Petr Dvořák