On Unification Day, Bulgarian swimming made another noteworthy addition to its history books. Tsanko Tsankov has set a new record, swimming 107 kilometers nonstop in the Danube River. Tsankov is the first Bulgarian to have completed the swim from Europe to Africa via the Strait of Gibraltar. He is also a world champion in ice swimming.

Dozens of water sports enthusiasts watched Tsankov’s incredible feat live from the riverbank, cheering his name. Officials were also present in Vidin and Kozloduy to support the swimmer.

Tsankov’s route began near Vidin and ended at the historic ship “Radetzky” in Kozloduy, where he was greeted by a large crowd of fans. The World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA) monitored his progress via GPS throughout the swim, ensuring compliance with the regulations required for the record to be officially recognized. Tsankov’s team meticulously adhered to the rules for the 100-kilometer swim.

Tsankov began his journey at 3:17 AM and finished at 9:31 PM in Kozloduy, where he was welcomed with a celebratory ceremony on the “Radetzky.”

This achievement marks a first in the history of swimming in the Danube River. Tsanko Tsankov became the first swimmer to spend over 18 hours continuously in the river between the two cities. He completed the distance without wearing a wetsuit or resting on any vessel, in full accordance with WOWSA rules.

Onboard the lead boat “Victoria 1” was renowned swimming legend and international referee Stefan Georgiev, who served as an official observer. A professional video crew captured Tsankov’s swim from start to finish, both on the water and onshore. The footage will be used for a documentary film about Tsankov’s incredible feat, which will be broadcast free of charge both in Bulgaria and abroad.

The event was organized by CPS “Pobeda” with the support of the Municipality of Vidin, the Municipality of Kozloduy, and the “River Administration” Directorate in Lom. Tsanko Tsankov is one of the athletes supported by Foundation “Sport in Bulgaria” and Palms Bet.