Môreson Mile 2026 makes waves with record entries and R100 000 raised for local children

GEORGE NEWS - The 5th annual Môreson Mile Open Water Swim proved once again that it is far more than a sporting event - it is a celebration of community and hope.

Held at Island Lake in Wilderness, this year’s swim drew a record-breaking 308 participants, the highest number since the event’s launch in 2022, when just 43 swimmers took part.

Over four years, the Môreson Mile has grown into a Garden Route highlight, uniting athletes, families, and supporters for a cause that truly matters.

The 2026 programme featured both the 1 Mile Open Water Swim and the popular 350m Youth Swim, welcoming swimmers of all ages - from aspiring young athletes to seasoned open-water competitors.

In the youth race, Scarlet Macdonald (11) claimed first place in the female category with a time of 6:26, while Bastian Vorster (15) topped the male category in 6:05. In the 1 Mile swim, Andreas Rossouw finished first in the men’s race in 23:26, and Arabelle Grutter led the women in 24:56.

This year, the Môreson Mile welcomed two disabled swimmers, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and its vision of inspiring all members of the community to take part in open-water swimming.Yet the results on the leaderboard were only part of the story. This year, the Môreson Mile welcomed two disabled swimmers, reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity and its vision of inspiring all members of the community to take part in open-water swimming.

Organised by volunteers and staff from the Môreson Child and Youth Care Centre, the event supports children aged 4 to 18 who are under the centre’s care.

This year, participants and sponsors helped raise just over R100 000, which will go directly towards upgrading facilities and infrastructure, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for the children.

Promoting water safety remains a core focus of the event. Through community involvement, education, and partnerships, the Môreson Mile continues to use sport as a platform to raise awareness about drowning prevention - a vital initiative in a country where water safety is a pressing concern.

What a beautiful sight: 308 participants at Island Lake for the Môreson Mile Open Water Swim.