Courtesy of Michael Zoetmulder, Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa.

Michael Zoetmulder organizes several different races in South Africa’s Nelson Mandela Bay.

Jendamark Bellbuoy Challenge
The Jendamark Bellbuoy Challenge is a tough 5 km swim directly out to sea, around a nautical bellbuoy and back to shore held annually in April. It is Africa’s toughest Indian Ocean open water swim with both swimsuit and wetsuit categories.

It offers one of the highest prize pool in South Africa plus unique African bead trophies for the overall and age group winners. The event attracts between 100 and 200 swimmers and the list of past winners include Petar Stoychev and Rok Kerin.

For more information, visit www.bellbuoychallenge.co.za.

2. The River Mile is a 1.6 km tide-assisted swim held in February that is Africa’s oldest open water swim.

Established in 1924, it includes a separate men’s, ladies and disabled mile races. The Legend of the River Mile is Mally Richards who has completed in 64 River Mile events since first competing as a 14-year-old in 1947. The event typically attracts between 400 and 1,000 swimmers from around the country.

For more information, visit www.rivermile.co.za.

3. aQuellé Ocean Racing Series includes 400m, 1 km, 2 km and 3 km races around a 1 km course off Hobie Beach from October through to April each year.

It is Africa’s largest family beach event offers a selection of open water swims and takes place on alternate Sunday mornings throughout the summer. The Series also includes a 5 km Beach Run, 5 km Beach Walk and a Kids 12 years and under 1 km Beach Run. All 7 events take place at the same time.

For more information, visit www.zsports.co.za/ors.

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