The country’s first-of-its-kind open water swim, organised exclusively by charities for charities, is returning to Durban’s shores this winter.
The Oceans 8 Charity Swim will take place at the Durban Undersea Club on June 15 and 16 in a one mile, four mile and 8 mile format. Spaces are limited, and keen swimmers are urged to book their spots now!
“Open water swimming is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world and we’re excited to provide swimmers with an opportunity to compete on the East Coast while supporting our local charities,” explained Oceans 8 Charity Swim event spokesperson, Hilary Bruss.
At last year’s inaugural event, more than 170 swimmers competed across 80 miles, raising a phenomenal R926 359.79 for 14 charities.
This year, it’s hoped to double the charitable funds raised.
This epic ocean swim was started by founding charities Duzi Umgeni Conservation Trust, the National Sea Rescue Institute, Project Rhino and Singakwenza Early Childhood Education as a way to provide a sustainable flow of funding for these and 10 other non-profit organisations in KZN.
These include Adopt-a-River (www.adoptariversa.org); Caversham Education Institute (www.cavershaminstitute.co.za); CROW – The Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (www.crowkzn.co.za); Game Rangers’ Association of Africa (www.gameranger.org); International Sailors’ Society of Southern Africa (www.saiss.co.za); Kerr House (www.kerrhouse.co.za); Liberty NPO (www.libertynpo.co.za); One Planet S.A. (www.oneplanet.org.za); Wildlife ACT (www.wildlifeact.com) and Umduduzi – Hospice Care for Children (www.umduduzi.co.za).
Bruss said the Oceans 8 Charity Swim was going a step further to also highlight the need for ocean conservation.
“This is a single-use-plastic-free event that supports local suppliers and all sponsors are supplying items in line with this sustainable messaging. This includes the sponsorship of reusable water bottles and the provision of spring water from Dundee via giant water containers, kit bags made from recycled advertising banners and handcrafted medals which can be used as beaded keyrings after the event.”
Visit www.oceans8swim.co.za to enter the 2024 Oceans 8 Charity Swim.
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