With just a few days to go to the 30th annual Polar Bear Swim that will take place at Aldam in the Willem Pretorius Game reserve, arrangements are in high gear.
This year marks the 30th year of this challenge and held for 30 years here in the Goldfields area.
“On 28 June we once again tackle the freezing murky waters of Aldam, the home of the Polar Bear Swim for the last few years,” says founder and organiser, Felix Burri.
“Our multiple sclerosis group from Sasolburg will join us, and swim again this year to once again raise awareness of MS and the survivors of MS. Search and Rescue SA (Sarza) will be the principal beneficiary of funds raised from gate takings, profits from food sales, donations and auction.”
Sarza is a volunteer organization that helps in emergencies, especially disasters and recovery of persons in danger, says Burri.
Swimmers from Gauteng (Alberton) Northern Cape (Kathu), Eastern Free State (Bethlehem and Clarens) will be joining locals from Odendaalsrus, Welkom, Virginia, Winburg, Kroonstad, Hennenman and Ventersburg.
A water temperature of 9°C and outside temperatures of 17°C are expected.
The 200 swimmers are expected to take on the murky, icy waters in their colourful team or corporate outfits vying for the spirit prize and prize for best dressed and the sought-after full-colour medal. Lucky dip prizes are up for grabs.
Aldam is the first of five events on the Polar Bear calendar this year.
Next follows Bloemfontein on 5 July, with Sarza, CHOC House and Hospice as beneficiaries.
A week later is the formidable ultimate challenge swim at Sutherland, which serves as a fundraiser for the Johenco Home for the Elderly.
The last two legs will be held at Victoria Bay, on 19 July, and Santos- Mossel Bay on 20 July. Both events are in aid of Sarza, the NSRI and Helpende Hand.
Entry fees are R100 per vehicle. The Goldfields Sarza branch will man the gate and supply support services to the event.
Entry for the swim is R100 per person, and only swimmers ten years and older may enter.
Refreshments will be available for all tastes, and braai stands for braai-ing.
The challenging night swim will be held at 22:00. A super large special medal is up for grabs.
For enquiries phone Burri on 082 851 4584.
