Learners and parents take icy cold swim challenge for charity

Participants donated either R100 or a blanket, with all proceeds going to local charities.

July 1, 2026

Lebohang Pita 2 minutes read

Swimmers jump into the water during the St Dunstan’s College’s fifth annual Headmaster’s Polar Bear Challenge.

Sadie Kata was left with pins and needles coursing through her body after completing eight lengths of the pool during St Dunstan’s College’s fifth annual Headmaster’s Polar Bear Challenge on June 19.

The Grade 11 learner emerged from the icy water, shaking and grinding her teeth after joining fellow “polar bears” for the charity swim at the St Dunstan’s Preparatory School pool.

The headmasters Matthew Moolman (preparatory), Lee Milner (preschool) and Warwick Taylor (college) also took part in the challege.

“The first time you jump in, there’s a huge shock to the body. It feels like pins and needles and you can’t breathe. During the first two lengths I was trying to find my rhythm, but once I did, I felt good,” she said.

Spurred on by upbeat music and chants from learners packed into the grandstand, Carter was among about 200 swimmers, parents and headmasters Matthew Moolman, Lee Miller and Warwick Taylor who braved the 11°C water for a worthy cause.

Looking fresh after completing eight lengths of the pool are Kieron-Dante Wiltes, Trent Williams, Daniel Middlewich, Sadie Kata and Chloe Olivier.

To enter, participants donated either R100 or a blanket, with all proceeds going to local charities.

“It makes me feel really good that I did this to help the needy in our community,” Kata added.

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Kieron-Dante Wiltes also completed eight lengths and said he enjoyed the challenge despite the freezing conditions, highlighting the event’s importance in supporting those less fortunate.

“The water was freezing, a lot colder than last year. I was mostly doing backstroke because I couldn’t catch my breath. Overall, it was a good swim.

Brodie Fick enjoys the St Dunstan’s College’s fifth annual Headmaster’s Polar Bear Challenge.

“It feels even better knowing I did extra lengths for charity. I’ve been doing this for the past three years and it gets better every year,” he said.

Moolman, the preparatory school headmaster, said the proceeds would be donated to various charities and that the challenge serves as a reminder of the hardships many people endure during winter.

“It’s a fun community builder and an opportunity to raise funds for the less fortunate in our community.

Braving the cold water together makes us think about those who don’t enjoy the comforts we have and experience a little of what they go through during the winter months,” he said.

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