More than 50 swimmers are making plans to cross the Bering Strait. The swimmers come from several different countries, five of which are located in South Africa. The swimmers will begin their journey from the Russian coast and head towards Alaska.

The unusual sporting event has been scheduled for the month of August. Even though the shortest route from the Russian coast to Alaska is about 82 kilometers, the swimmers will avoid it because of the strong currents in that region. Instead, they will take a different route, which is about 100 kilometers long, and will take them to Alaska in 48 hours. The swimmers will have donned swim suits, goggles, and a cap. As of now, their plan is to swim for about 20 hours and then take a rest. After about 10 hours, they intend to step into the water again.

The temperature of the sea in those regions is about four degrees Celsius. Cold water swimming is definitely not an easy task, and if someone backs out, the others will have to compensate for it.

Other than having to endure a perseverance test, the swimmers will have to overcome bureaucratic barriers to reach their destination.

Known as the ice curtain, the Bering Strait is a region between the United States and Russia that remains frozen for most of the year. Crossing it can only be accomplished in the summer season, but all along challenges will have to be conquered. The swimmers should also try to avoid whales. Until now, all attempts to cross the Bering Strait have failed, whether they were made on feet, boats, or kayaks.