On the morning of January 1, 2021, nearly 100 swimming athletes and winter swimmers swam across the Xijiang River in the Nantou Water Sports Park to offer special New Year greetings.

The temperature was as low as about 10 degrees Celsius because of the cold snap, but the participants and onlookers were still filled with enthusiasm. The winter swim activity started at 10:00 am. Seven swimmers wearing professional swimming equipment went into the water first, followed by squads from the Zhongshan Swimming Association and residents from Shiqi District, Huangpu Town, Nantou Town, and other locations. About 45 minutes later, the swimmers arrived at the finish line in succession.

Mr Wang, 65, came from northeast China. After retirement, he settled down in Zhongshan and has been a winter swimmer for 6 years. "A new year means a new beginning. This activity is of special significance to encourage people to keep fit together," said Mr Wang.