The Open Scandinavian Championship in Winter Swimming takes place every February in a pool cut out of a frozen lake in a small Swedish town about 100 miles from the Arctic Circle.
Tristan Bavik
Swimmers descend into the chilly water, as diving is not allowed. Nearly 400 people from 16 countries competed this year.
Deb Brunswick/CNN
The water temperature is 0.2 Celsius (32 Fahrenheit), just shy of freezing. The ice on the surface, more than 2 feet thick, had been cut by a team of laborers with chainsaws.
Deb Brunswick/CNN
Swimmers can't wear wetsuits, gloves or any footgear. But all of them must wear a hat, to help retain body heat. There is a competition for the most creative headgear.
Tristan Bavik
The day consisted of three individual races and one team relay which is the most popular, with more than 40 teams competing.
Deb Brunswick/CNN
When racers come out of the water, "they are very happy," said Lars Westerlund, a founder and organizer of the race. "It's like taking a joint. Everything is in harmony. It's a very special experience."
