Local swimmers delivered standout performances at the 53rd Midmar Mile in Howick over the weekend, joining thousands at the iconic open-water event.

Sheffield resident Sandy Phin (61) claimed a silver medal in the 61-70 age category, a remarkable achievement. Phin, who was also the first-ever girls’ U13 winner in 1978, returned to regular training two years ago and was thrilled with her result.

“I was swimming on and off, but since I took up the pastime again, I got hooked. Midmar is incredible; it’s about getting over the line,” she said.

Another piece of history was written by Midmar legend Mike Pengelly (79), who completed his 53rd consecutive race, maintaining his status as the only swimmer to have participated in every event since its inception in 1974. The Salt Rock veteran finished in 58 minutes, narrowly beating the cut-off time.

“Midmar is an epic race. The conditions were perfect but my swim was slow,” said Pengelly.

He admitted the most challenging part is no longer the swim itself.

“The challenge is getting to the race; the swim is a formality. I am going blind now, so swimming straight is an issue, but I had two mates, Tony Sinclair and Dave Tate, guiding me to the finish,” he laughed.

In the elite men’s race, former Umhlali Prep pupils Sven van der Linde (20) and James Kewley (21) delivered impressive performances, placing fifth and eighth respectively.

Van der Linde finished less than a minute behind winner Matthew Caldwell.

“I had a good start, a bit hectic, but I found my pace and rhythm after the 400m mark. I just held on and pushed through till the finish. I am very happy with my race,” he said.

A top-10 finish was a goal for Kewley.

“Placing in the top 10 is something I have dreamed of for a long time,” he said.

The event also saw enthusiastic participation from community teams, including 86 Bloom Team swimmers, who swam in support of Bloom Special Needs School. Curro Salt Rock’s junior and senior swimmers also finished the race with smiles.

Swimming coach Nicola Keyser said the day was especially meaningful for first-timers.

“The kids thoroughly enjoyed their experience. Most didn’t realise how far the swim was until they got to the dam,” she said.

Ubuntu Aquatics, a Shaka’s Head-based swim and surf school for children aged four to 17, marked its third appearance at the event since its founding in 2018. The club has faced training disruptions due to a leaking pool, forcing sessions to alternate between Salt Rock beach and a pool in Stanger.

Despite the challenges, spirits were high. Coach Sinqobile Zondi said the Midlands outing proved both rewarding and uplifting.

“Our club had a good race,” he said.

“None of our swimmers placed, but spirits were high,” said Zondi.

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