Warm feelings after Flamingo Aquatics’ icy plunge at Elcon

ADMIT it, there’s nothing you’d enjoy more on these chilly Spring mornings than to plunge into the icy water of a swimming pool still chilled from our freezing winter …

No? Me neither! But that’s precisely what a group of swimming enthusiasts did recently.

Flamingo Aquatics recently hosted their much-anticipated annual fund-raiser, featuring a polar plunge at Kimberley’s Elizabeth Conradie School. The event was designed to unite the community, promote swimming, and support local schools simultaneously.

But in a heartwarming and exciting development, Flamingo Aquatics announced a partnership with Elizabeth Conradie School to promote swimming at the institution.

Plans are also under way to introduce the “Learn to Swim” programme on the school’s premises. This initiative will offer swimming lessons not only to the school's learners but also to members of the public, providing an invaluable opportunity for both students and the wider community to learn essential swimming skills.

Speaking to the deputy principal of Elizabeth Conradie School, Johan van Zyl, it was clear that the day was a success. “Saturday was a true ‘dream come true’ for me and Mrs. van Zyl. It has always been her vision to restore the outdoor swimming pool to its full glory. Mrs. van Zyl and I share this vision and have been looking for the perfect opportunity to officially inaugurate the pool,” he said.

Van Zyl said that the Flamingos’ Polar Plunge was the ideal opportunity. It was the first official event held at the pool since the renovations.

“It meant a lot to our learners, as they could socialise on a different level and enter the water with full confidence. With the ‘fun and games’ and the treats from Flamingos, our learners could socialise with Christina Kiddies and other swimmers. THANK YOU AGAIN!

Van Zyl, who is also part of Flamingo Aquatics, said that swimming embodies an important therapeutic aspect that is crucial for learners with physical disabilities. “As a school, we look forward to partnering with Flamingo Aquatics again to breathe life into swimming at the school. Flamingos are more than welcome to network with the school again regarding swimming and the promotion of swimming in schools.”

As part of the event, Christina Kiddie Child Centre was invited to share in the festivities, giving the children a special day to remember. The young ones braved the icy waters of the pool for a polar plunge, followed by lively games such as tug of war and egg races.

The cold temperatures didn’t cool their enthusiasm, as the day was filled with laughter, smiles, and a sense of unity.

“The joy on the children’s faces was undeniable,” a representative from Flamingo Aquatics told the DFA. “It was a heartwarming sight to see them enjoying themselves despite the chill.”

The event highlighted the power of togetherness and the importance of creating opportunities for fun and recreation within the community. It was a day that will surely be remembered fondly by all who attended, as Flamingo Aquatics continues its mission to promote swimming and water safety in Kimberley.