Glen Anil resident wins back-to-back Midmar Mile title
David Williams won his second consecutive Midmar Mile title in the men’s physically disabled race.
THERE was much celebration at the aQuellé Midmar Mile recently as Glen Anil resident David Williams won his second consecutive title in the men’s physically disabled race.
The 33-year-old, who was born without legs below the knee, said he did not expect to win for the second year running.
“Quite honestly, I wasn’t planning on swimming a competitive race. I hadn’t done much training, and for the first time in the Midmar Mile, I wanted to take a chilled and relaxed approach. At the start of the swim, I spotted a girl swimming just ahead of me. I made the decision that instead of stopping and looking forward at the finish, I’m just going to keep up with her.
“Needless to say, she was motoring along, and about three quarters in, I could feel the strain. I actually didn’t realise I’d won even after coming across the finish line. I had left the dam when my friend mentioned the organisers had a winner’s medal for me,” he said.
Williams also dedicated his mile to disability rights organisation Made for More.
The organisation aims to include, empower and equip people with disabilities through sport, including adaptive surfing.
“Last year, I dedicated my mile to CHOC, and this year, I wanted to give back to Made for More. They’ve done so much for me and when they asked if I would be keen to swim for them, I was like ‘hell yes’. It is always such a special moment for me to do anything for Made for More. My dream was to represent my country at a world champs; Made for More made that possible. If there is any chance I can give back to them, I will do so at the drop of a hat,” he said.
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