Tsanko Tsankov’s uninterrupted swim in the Danube River on September 19, 2024, has been officially recognized as a record by the prestigious Official World Records (OWR) organization. Tsankov, one of the athletes supported by Foundation “Sport in Bulgaria” and Palms Bet, was awarded in the category “Longest Continuous and Unassisted Swim in the Danube.”

The organization issued a certificate of authenticity and sent congratulations on September 19, confirming that the swim was conducted in full compliance with international rules.

Tsankov’s journey to the record was anything but easy. After his initial 100-kilometer swim on September 6 was not recognized, he undertook the challenge again, swimming over 100 kilometers in open water twice within just 12 days. On September 19, Tsankov started in the village of Yasen and finished at the historic ship “Radetzky” in Kozloduy, completing the distance in 18 hours and 1 minute.

“I am extremely happy and proud to receive this certificate from OWR,” Tsankov shared. “I know how much I endured, both physically and mentally. I have always swum by the rules and never done anything improper. I wanted to achieve this record for Bulgaria, and I did. Every effort was worth it. Despite the smear campaign against me after the first swim, I proved that truth and goodness always prevail. This document from OWR is of immense value, and I am grateful to all Bulgarians for their incredible support. I will continue on my path, and nothing can stop me from representing Bulgaria worldwide in open water swimming,” he said, visibly emotional.

Source: Palms Sport.