Ikarashi Ken, a 52 year old school teacher from Japan swam across Lake Baikal last week. The swim took him 15 hours in water temperatures of 9-11 degrees celsius (48-52 Farenheit).

I’ve paddled in Lake Baikal, and I can confirm that the water is not just cold - its bloody cold. I think I lasted about five minutes before I had to leave and wrap my feet in a towel. And although many Russians will go for a quick swim, even the hardiest seldom stay in the water for more than a few minutes. So, I take my hat off to Ikarashi Ken - a great achievement!