Take an icy plunge for charity
Be part of this chilly swim in the Drakensberg, which is held to benefit organisations that care for animals
Submitted by Belinda Espag
It is the brisk cold of a mid-June morning that really brings out the Drakensberg community.
For once, we shall not be dusting the frost off our gumboots and inhaling a cup of locally made coffee.
We shall be united, all of us with one mission in mind – to help those who cannot help themselves. To put our minds and bodies on the line to bring to the attention of as many people as possible the suffering of animals.
And to help those who do their very best to save them.
The Drakensberg Polar Bear Swim Challenge is something very special, started by a local lady named Ann Gray for Winterton Primary School learners. The challenge has grown into something that is celebrated not only by our community but by many people outside too.
What to expect
This year’s Polar Bear Swim takes place at Dragon Peaks Mountain Resort. The event begins at 12.00 on June 25 and carries on until you would like it to stop.
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On the day, there is not only the swim but also the Waka Waka Market, a children’s play area, and many other activities to take part in.
All proceeds from the event are donated to the Estcourt Animal Shelter, Khetani Animal Rescue, and Animal Angels Central Berg.
While plunging into cold water is not an unusual event, we know that this one is very close to our hearts. The Drakensberg Polar Bear Swim Challenge is a bucket list item that anyone can do, as there are two swim options – 100m or 25m.
Prizes
There are many prizes to be won, which could be anything from a few nights’ accommodation to some of the most delicious meals in the valley, and many more in between. So if the idea of freezing cold water in the middle of winter in the Berg doesn’t put you off, this is how to register for this incredible event.
How to enter
Step one: a donation of R100 per swimmer, which must be sent to bank account details Van Zuydam and Swanepoel, First National Bank Account Number 62189582309 with the reference of PoloB, and your name and surname.
Step two: email the full list of swimmers’ names and your proof of payment to Belinda, berginfomedia@gmail.com
And that’s it. If you are uncertain about putting your body on the line, you are welcome to join in the festivities and be persuaded to swim on the day, but we can assure you that registering before is a bit easier.
The only rule of the Polar Bear Swim is that there are no wetsuits allowed.
You can, however, pre-order and purchase a Polar Bear Swim shirt. For more information, please contact Belinda at: berginfomedia@gmail.com
The Polar Bear Swim Challenge is an inclusive, fun day out for the family. Pets are also allowed (on leashes) in the park.
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