Ebenezer Mile celebrates 34 years despite downpours
Despite heavy downpours, the absence of mist allowed the 34th Ebenezer Mile to proceed, with swimmers braving the elements for charity.
POLOKWANE – Heavy downpours and muddy conditions marked this year’s Ebenezer Mile, hosted at the Ebenezer Dam on Saturday.
Despite the rain, the absence of mist allowed for organisers to continue with the event as planned.
The inaugural Ebenezer Mile took place in 1992 and this year the event celebrated its 34th anniversary.
Through the years this event grew in status and size and is a sought-after challenge on the swimming calendar.
This is one of the main annual money-raising events hosted by the Rotary Club of Haenertsburg.
Rotary president Johan Jacobsz said: “Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after the other. Saturday was certainly a day that tested more than just the athleticism of the Ebenezer Mile participants.
“The steady rain challenged every swimmer’s endurance and determination, revealing not only their physical strength but also the heart and charitable spirit they carried throughout the race.”
He added that resilience embodies the true ethos of Rotary Haenertsburg, where community, service and compassion meet, even in difficult conditions.
“We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who braved the weather and participated.”
Swimmers who performed well include Lara Wantenaar who completed the 31 year and over mile category in 30:01, maintaining a pace of 18.46min/km.
Timothy Varrie finished first in the men’s division of the same category with a stunning time of 27:40.
In the 3 000m open swim Jean-Mari Swartz maintained a pace of 17.17km/min to secure the overall first place as well as the first woman to finish. Just short of 4min behind her was the first man, Oliver Oberholzer with a time of 55:58.
Click here for the full results.
