Swimmers brave 81km race in Ganges River

Historic feat: Chong holding up the Malaysian flag after completing the race in 12th place.

PETALING JAYA: If taking part in one of the world’s longest swimming races at 81km is not challenging enough, try doing it in the world’s most polluted river, the Ganges.

Close friends Chong Wee-Lii, Ng Choon Keith and Mohd Zaimar Omar did just that earlier this month when they signed up to participate in the 77th Open Water Long Distance Swimming Competition held in West Bengal, India, on Sept 3.