15-year-old local lad Shane van der Linde recently took on the Ultra-Swim 33.3 from Montenegro to Croatia in Europe. Shane was the youngest South African swimmer to complete and qualify for this challenging open water event. An Ultra-Swim is a new category of open water event, defined as a multi-day timed swim challenge with a total distance of at least 33.3km – the theoretical shortest distance of the English Channel. With five to six timed swims over four days, it is tough enough to push swimmers out of their comfort zone but accessible enough for any competent open water swimmer.
Shane participated in the event from September 29 to October 2. The Marathon Swimmer Federation ruled on the third day in Montenegro that, “Shane van der Linde, your swims have been validated by the MSF and now appear on your personal logs and the long swims database – congratulations!” He competed against swimmers from 23 countries and managed to grab an overall ninth place; fifth place in the skin category and first place in the 10.5km marathon race. Shane stepped onto the top 10 podium as the youngest swimmer to compete and complete, as well as the number one spot on day 3 – QF Marathon 10.5km International.
Congratulations, Shane! Vryheid will be watching and will support you in your future endeavours!
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The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.
