5 February 2024 – The Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation South Africa has announced its active participation in the 51st edition of the aQuellé Midmar Mile, the world’s largest open water swimming event, scheduled for 8-11 February.
This iconic event, renowned for showcasing dedication and strong will, holds a special place in the heart of the foundation, as Princess Charlene herself has successfully conquered its challenges in the past.
Representing the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation South Africa in the 51st Charity Challenge are respected athletes: Terence Parkin, Mhlengi Gwala, Sanele Shange, and foundation board member Sean Wittstock. Additionally, youth ambassador Kaiden Keyser, along with his brother Keagan, will be navigating across the dam on waterbikes.
Olympic silver medallist Parkin has a remarkable history with the event, having completed the challenging 16-mile Charity Challenge as one of the first participants. Parkin has also undertaken challenges for the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation South Africa in the past, showcasing his dedication to the cause.
Their commitment to this epic event perfectly aligns with the foundation’s values of promoting health, well-being, and sportsmanship.
While it was founded in 1974, since 2016, the aQuellé Midmar Mile has been a crucial platform for raising funds for charitable causes. In the inaugural year, with only 120 swimmers, over R1 million was distributed to seven large and 11 smaller official charities. In 2023, the initiative saw 212 individual swimmers taking on the 8-Mile Charity Challenge and 21 individual swimmers tackling the 16-Mile Charity Challenge. For the 50th Edition, eight teams also joined forces to raise funds for various charities.
Having won the aQuellé Midmar Mile twice in the past as an elite swimmer (in 2000 and 2002), Parkin is set to embark on his 32nd swim this year, adding another chapter to his illustrious history with the event. His enduring commitment and achievements serve as a testament to the spirit of the aQuellé Midmar Mile and the charitable causes it supports.
Race Director Wayne Riddin said: “We are thrilled to have the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation at the aQuellé Midmar Mile this year. Obviously, Terence has played a major role at the event over the years and we are looking forward to welcoming him and all the other ambassadors back to the dam next weekend. The Charity Challenge has become a vital part of the event as we strive to make a difference in the lives of those around us.”
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