Axel Reymond of France was too strong in the UltraMarathon Swim Series race in Ohrid ©Getty Images

Frenchman Axel Reymond held off home favourite Evgenij Pop Acev to win the fourth leg of the International Swimming Federation UltraMarathon Swim Series in Ohrid, North Macedonia.

Reymond secured victory over the 25 kilometres distance in 5hrs 20min 55.3sec, with Pop Acev narrowly behind in 5:21.03.

Francesco Ghettini of Italy finished third in 5:21.09.3.

Compatriot Edoardo Stochino led the series prior to the meet in Ohrid, but had to settle for fifth position in 5:21:20.4.

Just six swimmers took to the water in the women's race.

Alice Franco of Italy won the women's race in Ohrid ©Getty Images
Alice Franco of Italy won the women's race in Ohrid ©Getty Images

Italian Alice Franco finished more than a minute clear of her rivals for victory, clocking 5:41:15.5.

Erika Yenssen led home three Argentine team-mates for second place as she finished in 5:42:31.8.

Pilar Geijo took third in 5:50.30.2.

A further two legs are scheduled as part of the 2019 FINA UltraMarathon Swim Series.

The next is in Novi in Croatia on August 31, before either Capri or Naples in Italy stages an event on September 7.