Up there on early morning, really early since the sun just started to rise and athletes were just about entering the restaurant to get breakfast, I realized it was not like back then a military drill nor some sort of punishment, it was an Open Water Competition in lake Titicaca in Bolivia.
One of three competitions held every year on that great lake about 2hrs from the city of La Paz.
Not only it is worth to mention the altitude above sea level of this lake, also the great number of participants on this unique crusade - and still growing !
Up to the level and distance young adventurous swimmers can be found starting from 15 years of age to senior and experienced swimmers.Not only locals, also encouraged swimmers from the middle class and members of the country clubs back there in the "lower side" of the country in the city of La Paz.
Will write a full report for the rest of us since for locals this goes back to tradition including some late night swimming distances without a neoprene suit.
(Author and pictures : Simon Aeschbacher)
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