**Note: This story first appeared in the printed edition of Vaalweekblad (14–20 November). Make sure to grab your copy every Friday for the latest news first!**

HENLEY-ON-KLIP– Swimmers braved the chilly waters of Bass Lake on the morning of November 8 for the first-ever Midvaal Mile, an open-water event promoting health, fitness and community spirit.

“By getting up to swim this morning, you are already winners,” said Midvaal Mayor Peter Teixeira during the opening. Later he added on Facebook: “Events like this boost our local economy, attract visitors and showcase what Midvaal has to offer.”

The one-mile race saw Muhammed Adam take top honours in the 19–39 category in 21:58, followed by Zaan Oosthuizen (U18) in 23:20 and Taylia Smith (U18), the first female finisher, in 23:36.

In the 600m swim, Mark McHugh (40+) won in 10:25, with Hayley Hodnett and Mieke Pretorius completing the podium.

Around 270 swimmers, from age 9 to senior competitor Jerry Fowlds, took part.

Organiser Elzana Swanepoel said the event was a dream come true. “There aren’t many open-water events in our area, we’ve always had to travel far. When Nicole Steenkamp suggested hosting one at Bass Lake, it was the perfect opportunity,” she said.

The aim, she explained, was to grow swimming in Midvaal and establish the race as a family-friendly annual fixture.

“Openwater swimming is a sport families can do together. We also hope to make this a recognised seeding event for the Midmar Mile,” said Swanepoel.

She added that the event for catering and lifeguard support.

First-time swimmer Lizelle Engelbrecht, training for next year’s Half Ironman in Durban, said the experience was challenging but rewarding.

Despite minor hiccups — including a lifeguard boat engine failure quickly solved with help from the Midvaal Fire Department — organisers hailed the day a success. “The response was fantastic. People are already asking about next year,” Swanepoel said.

With strong community backing and plans to expand, the Midvaal Mile looks set to become a highlight on the local sporting calendar.