A group of about 30 open-water swimmers completed an 11km crossing from Robben Island to Granger Bay in Cape Town to support endangered sea turtles. The event has raised over R600,000 for the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Turtle Conservation Centre, surpassing the initial target of R250,000. Organisers highlighted the challenges faced by turtles, including predation and plastic pollution.
Around 30 swimmers braved the cold waters for an 11km open-water crossing from Robben Island to Granger Bay on April 25. The challenge supported the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Turtle Conservation Centre, which rescues and rehabilitates stranded turtles along South Africa’s coast. Granger Bay will host the centre’s expanded facilities.
Ann Lamont, executive chairperson of the foundation and event spokesperson, said: “We run a turtle conservation centre at Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation. Turtles are the most resilient animals... We have been raising funds for a hundred turtle centres that are going to be built here at Granger Bay and there’s been 30 of us all sizes and shapes, it’s been amazing.”
The funds raised exceeded R600,000, topping the R250,000 goal. One participant described a solo 'skins' swim without a wetsuit, noting: “I have been swimming this cold water swim for about 12 years now since 2014 and we did it for the turtles today.” Supporters lined the shore despite chilly weather to cheer the swimmers.
Turtles often strand after predator attacks or ingesting ocean plastic, according to organisers. The public is encouraged to learn more and contribute to conservation efforts.
