This past Friday I took part in a Guinness book of records attempt, the goal was for 4000 swimmers to participate in a 24 hour swim, the event was organised by a local swimming club in conjunction with the Gauteng Provincial Department and endorsed by South African Olympic gold medalist swimmer Ryk Neethling and Talk Radio 702. The Swimmathon was also in aid of raising awareness and attracting people to educate them about the benefits of a sport that is also a life skill, particularly with the drowning of two infants recently at an uncovered private pool in Johannesburg.
Although the event was well publicised, it attracted very little interest, I signed up to swim during the 8 -12am time slot flanked by my two supporters, I had the misfortune however of bringing along the rain with me and when it was my turn to do my leg of the record breaking attempt, the event was stop due to the heavy downpour accompanied by lightning. I did however get an opportunity to swim for the first time at the Ellis park swimming pool which is of Olympic standards. The swimming pool boasts an impressive covered grandstand for supporters; a 20m warm up pool, a gym and impressive and well maintained change rooms with lockers and hot water.
It was also very heartwarming to see the support of two Indian clubs at this event, during the days we swam, approximately 15 years ago; there was very little Indian representation at these sorts of galas. Overall, although the goal of this attempt wasn’t met, it was an enjoyable and fulfilling experience that I made the most off frolicking and playing the way I used to when I was younger. I only hope that they can make another attempt and I can contribute next time around.
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