Brave swimmers to tackle gorge crossing
Five swimmers will tackle the Jozini Dam Gorge crossing to raise funds for CHOC.
FIVE gutsy open water swimmers will attempt the first ever crossing of the Jozini Dam Gorge in Northern KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday 21 January, raising funds for the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation.
The eight kilometre long swim up the gorge, which separates the Lebombo and Ubombo mountain ranges, will start at the entrance to the gorge and finish at the Tiger Lodge at the Jozini dam wall.
The group is made up of Mike Oberholzer, Ruth and Jay Azran, Andrew Stevens, and Mauritian, Jose De Charmoy.
“What makes this swim so unique is that the dam is flanked by private wildlife reserves as well as the Pongola Game Reserve. Wildlife abound in the area including the infamous tiger-fish, hippo and crocodiles,” said Jay Azran.
The initiative is the brain-child of Ruth Azran who has lost both her mother and brother to cancer.
“About three years ago, following the death of my mother, I decided that one day in their honour I would swim the length of the gorge. That time has now come, and I am truly fortunate to have my husband and three very competent other swimmers join me on this challenge,” she said.
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She said she chose to do it for CHOC because it is a cause that is very close to her heart.
“I really liked their fundraising component called the COWS. We will be sporting our cow costumes and swimming caps on the day and give it our best shot,” she said.
“We definitely all share some nervous anticipation for the swim, but feel confident that we have done sufficient training,” added Jay Azran.
So far nine support boats with some eagle-eye scouts have been organised to assist in deterring wildlife. The swim is due to start at 9am and should take about three hours to complete.
Financial pledges can be made online at www.givengain.com/ap/JoziniGorgeSwim.
Visit: www.thecows.co.za.
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