Swimming for charity in Oceans 8 Charity Swim
The Oceans 8 Charity Swim will take place at the Durban Undersea Club on June 15 and 16 in a one-mile, four-mile and eight-mile format.
DURBAN’s coastline is preparing for the return of the Oceans 8 Charity Swim, a remarkable open-water event dedicated solely to charitable causes, taking place at the Durban Undersea Club on June 15 and 16.
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Participants can choose from various distances, including eight miles, four miles or one mile, ensuring there’s an option for every swimmer. Last year’s debut attracted over 170 participants who collectively covered an impressive 80 miles and raised a staggering R926 359.79 for 14 deserving charities.
This year, organisers are aiming for even greater heights, aspiring to double the charitable funds raised to make an even more significant impact on the local community.
Spearheaded by founding charities like Duzi uMngeni Conservation Trust (DUCT), the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), Project Rhino and Singakwenza Early Childhood Education, alongside 10 other non-profits in KwaZulu-Natal, including the Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow), the event promises substantial benefits for these organisations.
Hilary Bruss, spokesperson for the Oceans 8 Charity Swim, stresses that the event extends beyond mere fundraising. “We’re also committed to highlighting the importance of ocean conservation,” Bruss emphasised. The event is a single-use plastic-free affair, with sponsors providing sustainable alternatives such as reusable water bottles and recycled kit bags.
Last year’s proceeds from the Oceans 8 Charity Swim played a pivotal role in supporting organisations such as Crow. Clint Halkett-Siddall, Crow’s director, expressed gratitude, stating, “Last year, the funds raised covered fruit and vegetables for the 354 animals we had on our property for two-and-a-half weeks and provided our orphaned antelope with goats’ milk for one month. At this year’s event, we are hoping to raise double the amount than in 2023.”
For those interested in participating or seeking further information, visit www.oceans8swim.co.za or follow oceans8swim on Facebook for updates.
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