The City of Cape Town’s Sport, Recreation and Amenities Department is partnering with the Phoenix Open Water Swimming Club to host a 12-hour swimathon as well as a free 12-hour ‘learn-to-swim’ programme for all ages at the Bellville South Swimming Pool.
The event will include 12-hour swimming relays, a 12-hour ‘learn-to-swim’ programme, a water polo display, splash pool games, water aerobics, kayaking, 5-a-side soccer, board games, obstacle courses and jumping castles. There will be entertainment on offer as well as prizes up for grabs.
Dates: 23 – 24 March 2012
Time: 23 March – 19:00, 24 March – 07:00
Venue: Bellville South Swimming Pool, Industrie Road, Bellville South
Registration will take place at the Bellville South Swimming Pool on 23 March from 16:00 onwards.
“This event forms part the of the Sport, Recreation and Amenities Department’s ‘war on drowning’ campaign. Several million South Africans do not have access to the resources necessary for the development of life-skills such as learning to swim. As a result, 91% of children never learn how to swim. This, in addition to the fact that an estimated 460 South Africans drown under various circumstances annually, highlights the importance of this campaign,” says the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services, Councillor Tandeka Gqada.
“The campaign further shows our commitment to being a Safe, Caring and Inclusive City. I urge all residents to participate in the swimathon or ‘learn- to- swim’ programme, which facilitates broader community participation, promotes a healthier lifestyle and encourages Capetonians to be more active,” Councillor Gqada added.
