This wild dash, or tiptoeing, whatever, into our awesome ocean celebrates life in the city and on earth. It’s an exuberant public expression of our love and care for our environment and its creatures, Spring Swim organiser and open-ocean swimmer Marie-Claire Hand said.
The fifth East London Spring Swim will be held on Monday September 1 at 6.15am on Nahoon Beach, East London.
“This is a fund raiser for the many stray dogs and cats who find themselves alone, fending for themselves in a tough metro. We will all be raising money for animal shelter, Pet Pals,” she said.
“Pet Pals does amazing work with lost and homeless dogs and cats in our city. People bring them in unwanted, unloved, bedraggled, and these unsung community champions feed them, treat them, heal them, love them, and do their best to find loving homes.
“A Daily Dispatch Off Track investigation into feral cats recently reported there are 10,000 feral cats struggling to survive in Buffalo City.
“Their average lifespan is only four years. Spaying is absolutely essential. Every creature matters.
“Pet Pals need every bit of support from the community. They get no subsidies, they are totally independent.
“Our spring swimmers are at the heart of our ‘oceanator’ community — our open water swimmers, granny grommets, paddlers, bathers, surfers, dog walkers, runners, kite surfers, hydrofoilers, divers, tourism cruise operators, sailors, anyone who loves and finds solace and joy in our seaside life. Even if you just take a drive around the Esplanade!
“We have a deep empathy with animals in distress and respect for those who dedicate their lives to trying to solve the problem. Bring your cash, cat or dog food and your good vibes! Let’s make this our best spring swim ever.”
“Arrive at Nahoon Lifesavers’ Shack at 6pm. There’ll be security guards and a lifeguard. Bring family and friends and gather on the beach. We’ll jump into the water as the sun rises, swim bodyboard, surf — whatever floats your soul. Surf Brew will be on hand for a zinging cup of brewed coffee.” Contact Marie-Claire on 083-3206-786.
