Durban 16-mile swimmer raises R20 000 for charity

A Durban teenager has managed to successfully swim 16 miles (25.7km) during the Midmar Mile, raising a whopping R20 000 for charity. Reegan Tait, a 17 year-old Durban High School matric pupil, raised the money during the race on Sunday. The money will be donated to the Duzi Umgeni Conservation Trust.

Durban youngster Reegan Tait completed 16-miles for charity during the Midmar Mile over the weekend.

Tait took on the daunting swim at the weekend that saw him get a 7.5 minute break every four miles.
“It was physically demanding of course. The first four miles were quite tough but once that is over, your mind takes over.”

Tait told News24 on Monday that the race was mentally challenging. “You just have to keep reminding yourself why you are doing this, during the pain. You have to focus on the end goal."


Keeping motivated
He said he had to brave the cold water and deal with both normal waves as well as waves coming from boats. Speaking on the achievement, Tait said he felt a sense of pride about completing the mammoth swim. “It was difficult for everyone who was participating but we kept motivating each other. Some people were feeling down and you just felt you needed to pick them up.”

Tait has plans to continue swimming for charity. “I am planning to complete another big swim next year. If there is an opportunity for me to do so, I will step up to the plate. I also would like to complete the Robben Island swim at some stage," he said.

When asked to give advice to others hoping to pursue big swims, the youngster said: “You have to keep you mind on the greater good. Set the goal of doing something and doing it for charity. Keep your mind on the charity and you will come through with the result you want.”

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