SPORT NEWS - A father and son duo from Graaff-Reinet is braving the icy waters of the Nqweba Dam every afternoon as part of their preparations to swim the Robben Island Challenge in September.
The Robben Island swim is an intense 7,5km open water challenge from Robben Island to Bloubergstrand in Cape Town.
According to dad Grant Lemke, it is considered one of the world's most extreme swims due to the extremely cold Atlantic Ocean averaging around 13 to 14°C, unpredictable sea and weather conditions and the presence of great white sharks that make it even more challenging.
The Lemkes are currently training to attempt their maiden crossing during the upcoming September school holidays. When asked why they chose September, Grant explained, "The reason is simple: we need to acclimatise to the cold Atlantic waters, and the only time we can do that in the Karoo, is by swimming during winter when the water is cold."
He says the biggest challenge of the swim isn't the distance, but coping with the frigid water temperatures. "After a swim in the Nqweba dam, which is currently 10°C, we can neither speak nor walk because our faces and feet are completely numb."
The father and son enjoy many outdoor activities together. Last year, they competed in the Fish River Canoe Marathon, finishing second in the Parent and Child category. Earlier this year, they undertook the 5km Bell Buoy Ocean Swim in Gqeberha.
Ben, 16, a Grade 10 learner at Union High School, and Grant, 52, are also aiming to compete in the half Ironman in Mossel Bay later in November.
Ben says: "It can be quite lonely swimming by yourself, so we invite members of Graaff-Reinet to join us for a swim in our beautiful dam!"
Father and son duo, Ben (left) and Grant Lemke, before their 3km practice swim in the Nqweba Dam.
The duo returning from their 3km swim.
The water temperature in the dam was a mere 10°C.
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