Dowerglen resident prepares for eight-mile charity ocean swim

Dowerglen resident and open water swimmer Gloria Britain is going the distance this month by raising funds for the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI).

Later this month, she will take to the open sea for the 8-mile Oceans8 Charity Swim.

The swim will be held on May 23 and 24 in Durban.

No stranger to open water swimming, Britain has completed numerous Midmar Mile races and completed her first ocean swim in 2024.

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In October 2024, Britain swam 8km from Robben Island to Big Bay in just under five hours, despite 11.5 °C water.

At the time, Britain told the NEWS that she swam not only to challenge herself but also to inspire the community and older adults to dream big and take on challenges.

Since her 2024 swim, Britain has completed several more ocean swims.

In June 2025, she completed the 4-mile Oceans8 Charity Swim in Durban.

Her 2025 Oceans8 Charity Swim raised funds for several NPOs.

“What is nice about the community involved in the Oceans8 Charity Swim is that they are so passionate about raising funds and helping organisations.”

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“I capped off the year with a second successful Robben Island Crossing in December,” said Britain.

She said she dedicated the December swim to her eldest sister, who had recently passed away.

Britain said this year’s eight-mile (12.8km) swim will be split over two days, with her swimming four miles (6.4km) each day.

She said she will swim a loop fairly close to the shoreline, while being monitored by marshals and the NSRI.

She explained that when she reached the eight-mile mark, she was given the option to raise funds for two charities: the Rhino Project or the NSRI.

Britain explained that she chose the NSRI because of the work volunteers do, helping others in times of need.

“Over the years, I developed a deep appreciation for the ocean, and when I think of people drowning and what they experience in those final moments, it must be harrowing.

“To have people on call 24/7 who are volunteers and are willing to put their lives on the line to save others is something that I believe is very noble.”

To date, Britain said she had raised just R10 700 through a GivenGain platform.

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She said she has received donations from Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg and as far as Australia.

“I acknowledge everyone who makes a donation and thank them, no matter how big or small, and keep the process transparent.”

Britain says that as the swim draws closer, she is becoming more nervous and is questioning whether she has trained enough.

“Training for the swim takes a lot of time and discipline; not only do you have to prepare yourself physically, but mentally too,” said Britain.

“It takes a lot of time and commitment.”

To help Britain raise funds for the NSRI, visit https://www.givengain.com/project/gloria-raising-funds-for-oceans-8-charity-swim-npc-122707