The city of Amsterdam as well as the national government are both quite proud of what they see as a successful campaign to improve the quality and cleanliness of the water in the Ij harbor. Compared to decades past, they point to the fact that the ecosystem the lives off the Ij is improving and of course, the growing number of people who swim at different spots deemed clean and pleasant for a dip.

It is perhaps for this reason that 20 swimmers have decided to set out to circle around KNSM eiland, a stones throw away from Central Station and the busiest part of the inner harbor. This sunday, August 30th, starting at 12pm, these brave souls will compete for the Marie Braun Trophy. There is sure to be some fanfare and fun to be had for onlookers, as the city is mobilizing its resources to support the event.

Information in english is available on the swimmer's official website, where you can also read about a similar competition they participated in Rotterdam earlier this summer. They also have a blog, though be prepared, it is in Dutch.