Couple to take on the Midmar Mile in support of Sandton SPCA
Kelsi Naidoo and Callum Marais are turning every metre of the Midmar Mile into hope for vulnerable animals, aiming to raise R16 000 in support of the Sandton SPCA this February.
When thousands of swimmers dive into the cold waters of Midmar Dam on February 7, most will be chasing a personal best or ticking a major race off their bucket list.
For Kelsi Naidoo (25) and Callum Marais (29), however, the Midmar Mile represents something far more meaningful.
The couple is taking on the iconic 1.6km swim to raise R16 000 for the Sandton SPCA, symbolising R10 for every metre of the race. It’s a challenge driven not by competition, but by compassion.
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“The Sandton SPCA is local to us, and we’ve seen first-hand the impact they have in our community,” Naidoo said. “Knowing that the support stays close to home and directly helps animals in need makes this incredibly personal.”
Naidoo’s connection to animal welfare was strengthened through volunteering and spending time with rescued animals, experiences that left a lasting impression. “Seeing how resilient these animals are, despite what they’ve been through, really changed my perspective. It reinforced how important it is to speak up for those who can’t,” she said.
Marais believes many people underestimate the sheer scale of the SPCA’s work. “It’s so much more than adoptions,” he said. “They’re rescuing animals in distress, providing medical treatment, rehabilitating them, conducting inspections, and educating communities, often with very limited resources.
“That’s why fundraising is vital. Donations keep the doors open, food bowls full, and rescue vehicles on the road,” he said, adding that without ongoing support from the public, organisations like the SPCA simply can’t continue their lifesaving work.
Training for the Midmar Mile has required commitment on both a physical and mental level.
Also read: People power drives Sandton SPCA’s animal-saving work
For Naidoo, physically, it’s about consistent swim training and building endurance. “Mentally, I remind myself why I’m doing this. Knowing every metre represents support for the SPCA gives the training real meaning.”
For Marais, the toughest part of the swim isn’t always physical. “The mental challenge is often the hardest, pushing through fatigue and staying focused in open water. But when you’re swimming for a cause, it becomes easier to keep going.”
Swimming with purpose has changed how they view the race entirely. “It shifts the focus away from personal performance and onto impact,” Naidoo said. “Every stroke feels like it counts for something bigger than yourself.”
Reaching their R16 000 goal would be deeply rewarding, not just for them, but for the animals it will help. “It means real, tangible support. Medical care, food, shelter, things that can change or even save a life.”
On days when training or fundraising feels overwhelming, the motivation comes back to the animals waiting for help.
“Even on hard days, remembering them keeps us going. This effort could give an animal a second chance,” Naidoo added.
Their message to potential donors is simple and heartfelt: every contribution matters. “It’s not about how much you give. Even a small donation adds up when people come together,” Marais said.
Every donation will help the Sandton SPCA continue caring for animals who have been abandoned, neglected, injured, or mistreated animals who didn’t choose their circumstances but still deserve love, safety, and a chance at a better life.
For those who would like to donate, click on this link: Givengain.com.
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