Lifesavers praised for rescue
A swimmer needed rescuing at Pennington beach last weekend.
A near-drowning incident at Pennington beach was averted last Saturday, after lifeguards swiftly responded to a swimmer in trouble.
Anne Louwrens (56), who lives in Balgowan, visited Pennington last week, and being the sporty person that she is, she decided to go for a swim.
“I have been swimming the Midmar Mile for many years and I consider myself a strong swimmer,” she said.
“I also do scuba diving, snorkelling and extreme sports as I am a bit of an adrenaline junkie.”
Just like any other day, Anne got into the water for a swim and soon realised that the tide was coming in, but she didn’t take into account the cross current.
“My only option was to swim deeper into the sea to get out of the current and in the process I did get tumbled two or three times.”
“My calves were in spasm and I became sea sick while in the water.”
Anne remained as calm as possible and tried to stay afloat. She removed her bright blue flipper to signal for help.
The Pennington lifesavers spotted her and Anele Mbatha, got into the water in no time.
“I was very impressed by how fast he was and I am very grateful for him and the other lifesavers for being there,” added Anne.
This was the first time that Anne has ever been in a situation like this.
“It was a terrible experience which may have lasted about 20 minutes and I came out with a couple scratches and some sore muscles.”
“I cannot praise the lifesavers enough for being quick on their feet and doing what they do best. They are incredible!
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