While the customary misty weather caused a slight delay to the start of the 26th annual big swim, Ebenezer Dam once again played host to a successful Ebenezer Mile which lured almost 400 enthusiastic swimmers on Saturday.
Hosted by the Rotary Club of Haenertsburg the event provides ample fun for amateur swimmers as well as the perfect opportunity for keen open water athletes.
A new start and finish point for this year’s event created a new scenery not only for swimmers but spectators as well. “This was the first time the Ebenzer Mile was held in the new venue at Lepelle Northern Water Recreation Clubhouse known as Old Smokey’s and was an absolute success.
Plenty of open viewing space and a fabulous food court area where a variety of delicious food and refreshments were sold, contributed to the success of the event,” co-organiser and Rotary of Haenertsburg member, Robin Gardner said.
She said a total of 376 swimmers were counted on the day and they waited patiently for the misty conditions to subside in order for lifesavers to have a better view of participants during the swim.
“It was once again a festive atmosphere and everyone seemed happy. We really appreciate each and every sponsor who made it possible for us to host the annual Ebenezer Mile,” Gardner said.
This year’s event once again offered a mile (1 600 m) and 3 000 m swim for junior and senior male and female swimmers.
In the category 14 to 30 years Ockert Vermeulen (20:45) and Anel de Vos (21:56) claimed the first places. They also won the 3 000 m in time 41:14 and 45:47 respectively.
In the mile it was Jason Bosman (26:15) and Jordyn Botha (26:24) who claimed victory in the boys and girls u.13 category. Francois le Roux finished first in the men 31 and over category with a time of 25:01 while Joanna van der Merwe top scored in the same category for women in a time of 26:35.
Story: RC Myburgh
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