WATCH: Teen swimmer conquers Robben Island crossing

Former Zululander and open water swimmer Abigail Kirkland recently swam the equivalent of four-and-a-half Midmar Miles when she conquered the Robben Island to Big Bay crossing in Cape Town.

An avid sportswoman formerly from Mtunzini, Kirkland wanted to tick off the 7.5km swim as a bucket list item, but also used it for training ahead the 12km Langebaan Express in which she is competing on 2 November.

Braving 14 degree temperatures, she completed the Robben Island crossing in 2 hours, 39 minutes.

“She swam on her own with a skipper and observer from Big Bay Events on board. They launched from Oceana and travelled to Robben Island where the swim began,” said proud mom, Cate Kirkland.

Abigail, who is sponsored by Sailfish Wetsuits, often trains in the cold waters off Big Bay, doing open water swimming and as a lifeguard.

Read the full story in the ZO Weekender edition.

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