Impacting lives through swimming

Cameron Pennell, a 17-year-old Ashton learner, is taking on the Midmar Mile with the hopes of raising R10 000 in support of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation South Africa, which aims to reduce the numbers of drownings worldwide.

“It’s so sad to see news of kids who have drowned when I know I could have helped them,” Pennell told The Courier.

“The primary objective of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation is to have a global impact on reducing drowning statistics.”

“The Foundation’s mission is to raise public awareness about the dangers of water and to equip each individual with the tools to survive in deep water, perform CPR and basic First Aid.”

The Foundation is striving to make “learn-to-swim” lessons accessible to all children.

According to Pennell, Dominique Donner – who runs the Princess Charlene Foundation in Ballito – spotted his talent in the pool when he was only in grade four.

“Cameron was always a natural in the water,” said proud father, Chris.

Pennell, who trains for at least two hours a day – swimming six kilometers or more each session – says that his aim is to take part in the 2020 Olympics, swimming the backstroke.

“Backstroke is my favourite stroke,” said Pennell, “that and freestyle.”

Asked what goes through his mind when he’s out in the middle of a swim, Pennell said the mind has a tendency to wander.

“Often I’m just thinking to myself: ‘don’t you dare start hurting now, muscles – you can hurt later’.”

Pennell took seventh position overall at the 2016 Olympic trials in the men’s open category, placed second in the level 3’s at the SA champs and bagged a bronze medal at the KZN champs last year.

He expressed his thanks to his parents and supporters, as well as his coaches, Terrence Parkins and Sibani Makhanya.

“The satisfaction of success is when you impact someone’s life. Raising these funds allows me to not only make a difference in ones person’s life but a whole community – with your help.”

“I believe we were born with the ability to change someone’s life so don’t waste it and start donating.”

“Make a difference today.”

To help Cameron Pennell reach his target of R10 000 visit the website 107 and click on the ‘donate’ button.

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