GLENASHLEY resident, Mike Cameron, has always loved the outdoors, especially being in the water. A former water polo player and surf lifesaver at Umhlanga Rocks, Cameron has built up an impressive CV of results in the water. At the recent national masters champs in Durban, he won three golds, three silvers, broke two provincial records and one South African record. What’s more, the 79-year-old also broke several records at the provincial champs where he competes under the East Coast Masters Swimming Club banner.
“I’ve always been a good swimmer, never a top swimmer. My dad was a springboard diver and my mother was a champion swimmer of the Jersey in the Channel Islands, so naturally I grew up in the water. I’ve always loved the backstroke and I just enjoy being in the water. I was pleased with my performances at the nationals. I think a lack of training affected my times in some events but I’m determined to improve all my results at next year’s nationals. I’ve set myself the goal of getting my South African colours,” he said.
Cameron, who has been a masters swimmer since 1987, has held and broken several records, but insists the best part of being in the masters category is the camaraderie between competitors.
“I think masters swimming offers people so much, from people still actively seeking competition to improving fitness, and of course, for the social appeal. I think that a standout feature of the sport is the camaraderie and spirit shown between competitors and club members. It’s not all that serious and it’s loads of fun,” he said.
