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On Saturday, there will be a complete closure of the Danube branch in Szentendre from Postás Beach to Budakalász (both located near Budapest): on this day, between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m., no watercraft will be allowed to enter or pass through the affected area. The reason for the water police closure is a fun event: hundreds of swimmers will dive into the water to complete the 5.29-kilometer distance as part of the Open Water Tournament.
The Hungarian Open Water Tournament (OWT) will be held for the fifth time in 2025, and this year’s goal is once again to allow participants to discover the unparalleled beauty of Hungary’s landscapes while swimming. This year’s program promises to be truly special, as the Danube captures the imagination of every swimmer, and it is a rare opportunity for amateurs to try their hand at swimming in the river.
“Our motto is: do not struggle, just enjoy the trip! The 5.29-kilometer distance is not difficult even for beginners, as the water current is 4-5 km/h, therefore even those who just float on the water and admire the scenery can reach the finish line in an hour. Of course, professionals can swim faster. The water temperature will be a pleasant 23 degrees Celsius,” said Balázs Mezős, chief organizer and founder of OWT.
Safety will be ensured not only by a police water closure between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. on Saturday, but also by seven boats and a 30-person rescue service. The OWT is organized on a non-profit basis, with all registration fees covering the costs of the event and the work of the rescue services.
István “Ko-Ko” Kovács is an experienced OWT participant and took part in the trial swims this year. “Although I do not like swimming, I always take part in these events because it is more fun than a sporting achievement. Swimming from Szentendre to Budakalász is great fun, especially when 500 of you jump into the water at the same time. Swimming becomes a true communal experience at times like this,” said the Olympic boxing champion.
The swim starts at Postás Beach in Szentendre and finishes at the legendary Ebihal buffet in Budakalász.
After the Danube swim, this year’s OWT will continue on August 23 at the Gyékényesi Kotró Lake (southwest Hungary, near the Croatian border).
Via turizmus.com; Featured photo: Facebook/Open Water Tournament