Oceans throughout the world have become dumping spots, filled with pollution and plastic in particular.
Some would argue that the world and life beneath the water is perhaps more beautiful and diverse than what we see and discover on land and there is an urgent appeal worldwide to save our oceans.
Closer to home, Durban’s beaches are iconic. Surfing contests, surf skiing, sailing and general leisure draw thousands of people annually, and on Saturday June 8, swimmers have the opportunity to give back to the ocean, to make a contribution to ocean conservation, by participating in the Breathe World Ocean Day Swim.
Breathe is a non-profit organisation started by Durban endurance swimmer Sarah Ferguson to highlight the scourge of plastic pollution worldwide in all the oceans and to educate people from an early age in the importance of marine conservation.
“This is a charity event, with all proceeds going toward Breathe and the ongoing battle against ocean pollution. It is appropriate the event is on World Oceans Day,” said race director Trevor Martin.
There are four events on the day – 5km, 3.2km, 1.6km and 800m – starting from The Beach Club, next to the Durban Underwater Club, adjacent to uShaka, at the Point Waterfront. The uShaka Pier is the start and finish, with swimmers going as far as New Pier depending on the distance being covered.
Anyone aged 10 years or older is able to enter and compete and registration is at the Beach Club from 5.30am to 6.30am, with a race briefing at 6.45am. Racing is scheduled to start at 7am.
For Martin, there’s no chance of him taking to the water on the day. There is far too much for him to accomplish on the shoreline as he ensures all runs smoothly.
“Weather conditions obviously play a huge role and we live on a hope and a prayer as the day of racing dawns in regards to the wind and resultant surf conditions being suitable for swimming,” he said. “With many people of varying ages and swimming capabilities taking on the event, safety is of utmost importance. The ocean demands respect and on the day, we will have inflatable rescue boats on the different courses, plus 30 to 40 lifeguards on duty.”
Martin could not emphasise enough that swimmers should listen to their bodies and at any time when things did not feel right while they were in the water, to stop and get to shore as quickly as possible with the assistance of the inflatables and lifeguards.
“Swimmers are asked to swim near other competitors and be aware that should they need help, there are others around them to assist. This is an event for a good cause, to be enjoyed. The main aspect is to swim within your means,” he said.
While entries will be taken on the day, there will be an admin fee charged. Swimmers have been advised to enter online, which will be cheaper.
Entries are at www.roag.org and information on Breathe is at www.breatheconservation.org
