Youngster swims Midmar in 28 minutes

Taylin Alberts, a 13-year-old learner at Steyn City School sure does have quite the achievement to brag about.

Having developed a passion for swimming, Taylin recently took on the 46th Midmar Mile over the weekend of 9 and 10 February this year and was able to complete it in an impressive time of 00:28:26. Despite a relatively chilly start to both days, conditions were optimal and the water relatively calm throughout the weekend.

For children, finishing the race in under an hour is considered impressive. Open-water swimming takes great commitment and dedication so she constantly works hard to improve her time.

More than 14 000 people participated in the race from disabled swimmers – the first to take to the water each year and evoke emotion in the hearts of those watching from the banks of Midmar Dam – to families and company teams, as well as university groups.

Taylin managed to come 177th out of the entire female group overall.

This was Taylin’s second Midmar Mile and she trains six days a week with swimming coach Melissa Hemmings in order to continue improving her skills.

As a level three South African National Junior swimmer, the Grade 8 learner excels in the butterfly, specifically the 100m swim, and hopes to one day represent South Africa in her swimming career.

The aQuellé Midmar Mile team thanked every swimmer who took part and the sponsors who contributed to the success of the event. The 47th event will be held on 8 and 9 February next year.

Details: www.midmarmile.co.za