After months of being closed to visitors looking to enjoy the tranquil waters of Rietvlei, the vlei now finds itself buzzing with activity.
In early February, the Milnerton Aquatic Club took matters into their own hands after reportedly raising concerns about the City of Cape Town’s transparency regarding the results of the tests taken around the quality of the water. After conducting its own water quality tests on 31 December 2021, and then again on 17 January and 25 January 2022, the vlei was finally deemed safe to utilise and reopened in February.
On 2 April, the City hosted the Milerneton Aquatic Club 24-Hour Endurance Sailing Challenge at the water body, a section of the Table Bay Nature Reserve.
“It’s been three years since we last hosted this event and it’s amazing to see the turnout.”
Capetonians have been taking advantage of this natural space as they spent the Saturday hiking, jogging, picnicking and enjoying the race. According to the City, in an effort to provide locals with the chance to enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer in the Mother City, Rietveli will cost R0.00 to enter.
“We understand that people may want to visit but that the economic climate makes it difficult, hence, we are offering free entry. Come out, don’t miss out on the free fun,” said the City’s Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews.
The 24-hour challenge is still happening as of writing this article. If you haven’t hopped in your car and enjoyed watching in-person, here’s a link to the live event.
Also read:
Rietvlei reopens after pressure mounts from the Milnerton Aquatic Club
Picture: