Photos: The Pearl River death swim

On July 31, Guangzhou's bravest took to the water to cross the mighty (and polluted) Pearl River. The sky was blue, the water was brown and there was no shortage of police cars and shirtless men.

The event started at 1.30pm and saw swimmers cross from the pier at the north gate of Sun Yat-sen University South Campus to Xinghai Concert Hall on Ersha Island. The swimming distance was slightly less than 800 meters, according to event organizers. 

It was the 10th time the event has been held and it's intended to demonstrate the government's commitment to a clean river.

We cringe to think what is in that water, but we hope all participants feel refreshed and as healthy as ever.

Enjoy this photographic rundown of the festivities:

TV stations were on site to interview the adventurous swimmers. 

Swimmers arrived in droves to cross the Pearl River.

A banner celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Pearl River crossing.

A security officer watches swimmers.

There was no shortage of people in attendance to watch the murky swim.

Bobbing along on the Pearl River.

Police boats were on patrol for stray swimmers. 

Fresh out of the water, these boys were feeling pretty good.

Swimmers seemed in high spirits after the Pearl River crossing.