School teams to battle it out in new Midmar charity relay event
Schools across the country will go head-to-head in a new event introduced for the aQuellé Midmar Mile. Teams of four swimmers will complete a total of eight miles over two days as part of the schools charity relay challenge.
“We have a number of schools signed up already and they’re really excited to take part in this unique event,” race director Wayne Riddin said.
One timing chip will be allocated to each team, meaning it will act as a type of baton for the relay. Each swimmer will complete one mile on February 10, and another on February 11. Once all the miles are completed, the winners will be announced.
“And the best part is, it’s all for a good cause,” said Riddin. “Each team is responsible for raising a minimum of R10 000. Afterwards, 25% will be donated back to their school with the remaining 75% going to the charities that are partnered with the aQuellé Midmar Mile.”
These charities include the Pink Drive, CHOC, CANSA, Ezemvelo – Save the Rhino, the Chad le Clos Foundation/Swimmers Trust Fund, Happy Bundles and many more.
“Keeping the fundraising events separate from the swims over the weekend gives the swimmers the time and space to complete their events in a more relaxed environment that focuses on their achievements both in the water and on the funds that are raised through their efforts,” said Riddin.
There are six categories within the schools charity relay challenge: junior girls; junior boys; and junior mixed (for swimmers in Grade 7 or below); and senior girls, senior boys and senior mixed (for swimmers from Grade 8 to 12).