The cold water was relentless, but I refused to let it deter me.
My strokes became more powerful, my kicks more forceful. I was gaining ground, inch by inch, until I was right behind the leading group.
My body screamed in protest, but I ignored the pain. I couldn't afford to stop now.
I was not a professional swimmer nor did I have good swimming experience except knowing the basics of how to swim which allowed him to avoid submerging into water.
So I was in a slightly disadvantageous position than others as I was overtaken by others who were behind me.
Still, I increased his strokes to move forward as fast as possible using the strength he could muster.
I started catching up with those who had gone beyond me and slowly closed behind them.
With a final burst of energy, I pushed myself harder, my strokes becoming more desperate.
The riverbank was within reach, and I couldn't let this opportunity slip away.
