In pictures: Hong Kong swimmers braving the cold on New Year’s Day, from the 1970s to 2000s

For nearly 50 years, the New Year Winter Swimming Lifesaving Championships have represented a tradition of courage in Hong Kong, challenging participants with a 600-metre course from Middle Bay Beach to Repulse Bay Jetty. The fastest swimmers are crowned champions in various age groups and categories, including student and open divisions. Join us as we delve into the South China Morning Post’s picture archives, featuring generations of brave swimmers plunging into icy waters on the first day of the year, from the 1970s to the 2000s.