Capetonian Linda Thompson successfully completed a 33km swim across False Bay on Saturday, 6 May 2023. This achievement makes her one of only twelve people who have ever completed this challenging swim without wearing a wetsuit.
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Thompson’s 33km swim from Rooi Els to Miller’s Point took a gruelling 11 hours, 28 minutes and 5 seconds, during which time scores of swimmers were glued to their phones, following her progress.

False Bay is widely considered the Everest of swims in Cape Town, with notoriously unpredictable weather and strong currents presenting a formidable challenge to even the most experienced open-water swimmers.

Despite these challenges, Thompson remained determined and focused throughout her epic swim, drawing on her extensive training and experience to power through to the finish line.

When asked about the mental focus required to complete a gruelling open water swim, Thompson said, ‘Honestly, for the vast majority of the time, I was only thinking of my swimming and stroke. I had anticipated that I would be reflecting on my life, the enormity of this swim, my beloved grandmother for whom I did this swim or be singing my favourite Bruce Springsteen songs. Yet it happened that during the swim, I was only focused on the physical and mental focus of swimming, I was in the zone.’

Swimming in open water requires a high degree of physical strength and endurance as it involves navigating through unpredictable conditions such as waves, currents and varying water temperatures for extended periods.
Derrick Frazer from Big Bay Events served as the skipper who navigated the crossing, ensuring Thompson’s safety.
Thompson expressed the importance of teamwork during and after the swim, citing the contributions of her physiotherapist, pilates instructor, swimming community and friends who played a critical role in helping make her dream a reality.
‘I swam from 45 minutes to 45 minutes, with my coach whistling at 45 minute intervals when my crew and amazing friend Katherine would throw me a water bottle from the boat. I had no other concept of time or distance for the duration of the day. I didn’t consider getting out or not completing it although it was tough and some sections when the conditions were quite challenging. I knew I would succeed.’
‘Occasionally I did think of my five year old niece Gracie who I knew would be waiting for me back at Miller’s Point when the boat returned which made me smile. I imagined her saying: Go Auntie Linds!’
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Picture: Katherine Persson / Facebook