Inspirational lifesaver dies while training at Olympic Pool in Margate
Many people, including his brother, Mthembeni Mkhize, wanted to be like him because of the career he had chosen.
A veteran in lifesaving, swimming, paddling, surfing and diving, Shadrack ‘Khehlo’ Mkhize (51) from Bhomela, died at the Margate Olympic Pool last Thursday.
It is believed that he was swimming at the time and he suddenly stopped and waved for help, after a few minutes he was declared dead.
His brother, Mthembeni Mkhize, said that Khehlo served in lifesaving for many years and had produced many lifesavers.
“It is still unbelievable that he is gone, it’s like I am still going to get a call from him and have a conversation as usual. We are deeply hurt because he was the head of the family.”
Mkhize added that many people, including himself, growing up wanted to be like his brother because of the career he had chosen.
He said his brother’s career path was unusual, but fascinating, and he also ended up becoming a lifesaver.
Mkhize said Khehlo started working as a lifeguard before 1994 and was the first African man on the South Coast to be involved in such sports.
He mentioned that Khehlo was one of the Motorola Ocean Warriors when they paddled and swam from Cape Town to Durban many years ago.
“He was a good husband, father and a brother. A big tree has fallen, the lifesaving industry has suffered a loss and us as a family have lost a dear person.”
Umhlathuze Local Municipality in Richards Bay, where Mkhize was employed, said he was a true professional who dedicated his life to keeping others safe.
“His commitment to the job and community will not be forgotten. The swimming and lifeguarding community has lost a valued and experienced member. He wasn’t just an experienced lifeguard, but an ocean warrior, a long distance paddler, a friend and a mentor to many of us.”
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