Participants set out from the starting line. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A swimming race was held in the Xin'an River in Jiande city, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province on July 28, offering participants a brief respite from the sweltering summer heat.

The event attracted nearly 3000 swimmers divided into 118 teams across China, including more than 30 foreigners from 16 countries such as the United States, Russia and France.

Due to its special geographical and natural environment, water in the Xin'an River remains 14 C to 17 C year-round, providing some much-needed relief for swimmers on a scorching 37 C day.

Caroline Louise Bridges from the United States ranked first in the first group of the 600-meter race. "I felt cold when I first got into the water but gradually got used to it. The water quality seemed fine and I was glad that I pushed myself."

After a fierce competition, the first prize of 5000 yuan ($806) went to the team from Yuhuan city in Zhejiang province.

Launched in 1988, the event has expanded from being just a local contest to a national competition, providing a platform for swimmers to make friends and showcasing the beautiful natural scenery in the city.