THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD Sonal Jeewanlall of uMhlanga has made a splash on the national open-water swimming scene after completing one of South Africa’s toughest swims.

On December 11, 2025, the Reddam House Umhlanga learner successfully swam the gruelling 10.5km from Miller’s Point to Fish Hoek Beach in Cape Town, a crossing renowned for its icy water, strong swells and long stretches of open ocean.

A committed swimmer with Current Aquatics, Sonal has been competing in open water events for only three years, but said she was eager to test her limits.

“I’ve always wanted to see how far I could go and how much I could push myself,” she said.

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“Miller’s Point to Fish Hoek was the perfect opportunity for me to prove that.”

The conditions on the day were unforgiving, pushing Sonal both physically and mentally. She admitted there were moments when she doubted whether she would finish.

“Just before halfway, I started cramping badly in my calves and the pain made it hard to keep a steady rhythm. I honestly felt like giving up,” she said.

“But I reminded myself of all the hard training and early mornings. I focused on one stroke at a time and kept telling myself, ‘just keep swimming’.”

Swimming alongside her was coach Yolandi Williams, whose presence proved invaluable in the vast open ocean.
“Having my coach there made it less scary knowing we weren’t alone,” said Sonal.

“She kept pushing and motivating me to keep going no matter what. Without her guidance and motivation, I wouldn’t have been able to complete the swim.”

Preparation for the crossing required a demanding training schedule, with early-morning sessions before school, afternoon swims during the week, biokinetics for strength and rehabilitation, and weekend ocean training.

“I’ve learned to manage my time, stay organised and focus on my goals,” she said.

Reaching Fish Hoek Beach was an emotional moment for the young swimmer.

“When I walked out of the ocean, I was in complete shock,” Sonal said.

“I didn’t even realise I had just swum 10.5km. It was an amazing feeling to know all the hard work had paid off.”
She credits her success to strong support from her family and coach, especially her mother, who she says has been by her side throughout the journey.

Sonal hopes her achievement will inspire other young athletes.

“Your age doesn’t limit your capabilities,” she said.

“You don’t have to be fearless or perfect. With hard work, determination, focus and patience, you can achieve anything.”

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