distances, including a 5km, 10km, two young people’s races and the Tjejsim women’s race, all taking place over the course of the same weekend in early July. So why has it become such a popular event? Age is certainly
a factor – as well as being one of the biggest celebrations of swimming in the world, the Swedish event is one of the oldest, being held every year here since its inaugural event in 1950. Its organisers have far more experience than most of today's young pretenders to the sport. “The team behind Vansbrosimningen has 60 years’ experience of organising swimming competitions,” says Larsson. By now the events run like a well-oiled machine. “A sophisticated security framework has been set up, and 1,500 offi cials work all-year round on service, traffi c and construction work.”
Most swimmers use breaststroke to complete the 3km course
Its reputation for good organisation and safety makes it fun and safe for the whole family. Swedish Classic recipient Micke Thorén has swum the Vansbrosimningen six times, three times with his son Micky. “It’s the biggest swim in Sweden, very well organized and there are a lot of friendly people,” he says. He returns again and again because he meets “all happy people”.
This ties in with Larsson’s anecdotal research: “When we ask swimmers about their thoughts on Vansbrosimningen, they often mention that it’s a challenge within reach, a festival for all and a sense of community.” It’s certainly a unique event. “The swimming competition
takes place in two rivers. In the main race you swim 2km with the current in Vanån, and 1km against the current
IT’S A CHALLENGE WITHIN REACH, A FESTIVAL FOR ALL AND A SENSE OF COMMUNITY
39
Photos © Andreas Hansson/ Vansbrosimningen
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