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Over R100 000 raised at Durban North swimathon for CANSA

Swimmers swam a total of 3945 laps while raising funds at CANSA fundraiser which was held at Northlands Primary School.

DURBANITES united to support the fifth annual Cancer Association of SA (CANSA) Swimathon at Northlands Primary School over the weekend.

Over the 10 sessions, the swimmers swam a total of 3945 laps (98.625km) and raised R110 000 for the association through corporate sponsorships and swimmer contributions.

The event was driven by father-daughter duo and Durban North residents Lance Fraser and Ashleigh Clarke.

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“The rest of the day went very well, we were very lucky that the weather held out for us. We were incredibly pleased with how the day turned out and are so grateful for the opportunity to host this event for CANSA Active.”

Clarke, who is swimming next year’s aQuellé Midmar 8 Mile Charity Challenge for CANSA, explained why the event was important to her.

“We do this for CANSA as we want to give back to the community in some way. Cancer specifically is an issue that affects so many people, right from an early age. This is also an issue that has affected our family personally over the past few years, which makes it even more near and dear to our hearts.

“The participants from this year, and our previous years have been so generous and supportive of the swimathon initiative. They have told us that they love that the event is so inclusive for all swimmers, as it is geared not only for ‘serious swimmers’, but also for families and friends. It was really heartwarming to see so many young children joining us this year, being brought by either their swim school or by their parents,” she said.

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Sustainability co-ordinator for CANSA Durban, Natasha Brown, who was present at the event, was blown away by the support shown and by the drive of the Fraser family.

“The Fraser family’s dedication to supporting CANSA’s mission is incredible. CANSA is a volunteer-driven organisation and this family has committed to raising awareness, expanding our impact and raising funds to support the work we do. These events give us the opportunity to engage with swimmers and their supporters. We share vital information about risk reduction, lifestyle choices, being sun smart etc.,” she said.

Organisers of the swimathon Lance Fraser and Ashleigh Clarke.
Blake Lucas was one of the youngest participants on the day. She swam several lengths of the pool alongside her brother, Trent.
Sustainability co-ordinator for CANSA Durban, Natasha Brown, records the number of laps completed by swimmers on the day.
Marianne Labuschagne and Karen Brokensha are ready for their swim.
Cathy dos Reis, Nonkululeko Zwane, Kate Bartle, Cait dos Reis and Chris Anderson participate as a team.
Zibezwile Mathenjwa holds up some of the items participants could buy on the day to support CANSA.
Diane Hughes and Promise Mabaso were there to support the swimmers.
Loy de Jager and Gregg Hume.
The pool at Northlands Primary School was a hive of activity as swimmers completed as many laps in 30-minute slots.

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Shiraz Habbib

Shiraz has been a community journalist for the last 12 years and has a specific interest in everything sports. He holds a Bachelor of Arts undergrad degree and honours degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal where he majored in Communications, Anthropology and English.

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