Seals emerge virtually unstoppable from Midmar Mile!

Despite not being able to train for large periods of 2020, swimmers from Seals Swimming North Coast have continued to excel.

With the advent of Covid-19 over a year ago, most of the swimmers were unable to get into a pool but stayed motivated throughout and are now raring to go as events slowly resume.

Guided by former triathlete and Sydney 2000 Olympic qualifier Dominique Donner-Rodd, the young swimmers have overcome a number of setbacks to stay fit and in the right head space to compete.

“It was initially difficult, but the swimmers bought into the new cross-training programme that was forced on us and I think it will ultimately have a positive impact on their swimming,” said Donner-Rodd.

The dedication of the other Seals swimmers has continued to pay off as swimmers get back in the water, most recently with the Aquelle Midmar Mile over the past weekend.

Most swimmers were only allowed to compete virtually this year owing to coronavirus concerns, but an elite race was held at Midmar Dam where a few Seals represented the North Coast.

Poppy Dixon and St John Spoors were both selected to compete in the ‘Top 20 Elite Races’ event which only included a handful of under-13 swimmers on Sunday, March 14.

Donner-Rodd and 15 year old Joshua Crocker also took part, both swimming 8 miles on March 11 to raise funds for the Chad le Clos Foundation.

Le Clos, an Olympic gold-medalist, joined the rest of the Seals at the Crawford North Coast pool on Saturday, March 13, as they all swam the 1.6km distance and then logged their times virtually.

Special mention goes to Bailey Lambert who swam in the virtual event to raise money for the CHOC Foundation which supports those affected by childhood cancer.

“I am so proud of all the swimmers and the way that they have adapted. To compete again means so much to them, I can’t wait to see all of them back in the pool,” said Donner-Rodd.

The club now turns its focus to the Seals club champs in Pietermaritzburg this weekend March 19 – 21.

Eighteen swimmers aged 12 – 18 will also take part in the Seals Level 3 Gala from March 26 – 28.

Finally, The South African National Juniors will take place from April 6 – 11 in Durban and 11 Seals swimmers have qualified for the event.