Helderberg residents braved the cold and plunged into the Atlantic Ocean on Saturday 21 June, when Gordon’s Bay Yacht Club (GBYC) hosted the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Winter Solstice Swim.
The Winter Solstice Swim is a cold-water swimming event held annually in support of the NSRI. With the sun shining brightly but the sea temperature in a chilly 14,6 °C, residents came out in droves to the GBYC to test their mettle, show their support for the NSRI, and celebrate the winter solstice.
“Participants challenged themselves both physically and mentally by swimming in cold water while being part of a unique social and sporting event,” says Stephanie Young, social media coordinator for the GBYC.
The astronomical phenomenon occurs once a year within the Southern Hemisphere when the South Pole reaches its maximum tilt away from the sun, creating the shortest day and longest night of the year simultaneously.
Across South Africa, the winter solstice was experienced at 04:41 on Saturday. Beyond the scientific significance of the solstice, the NSRI celebrates the occurrence as an opportunity to combine traditional symbols of renewal with modern charitable giving.
“GBYC has embraced this tradition by hosting the swim as a community event and fundraiser for the NSRI,”
Stephanie Young
Ryan Holmes, NSRI’s Station 9 (Gordon’s Bay) commander says the funds raised during the event will go toward maintaining the station as well as preparations for the summer season, when sea rescue operations in the Helderberg are important.
Kyle Burns and Deralene Montagner smiling after participating in the NSRI Winter Solstice Swim. 
Nicolas Lorenzen and Stefan Botha feel invigorated by the crisp Gordon’s Bay winter breeze after diving into the cool Cape Town sea during the NSRI Winter Solstice Swim. 
All smiles as local participants and the NSRI’s Station 9 crew exit the water after their courageous Winter Solstice Swim at Gordon’s Bay. Despite the chilly Atlantic temperatures, spirits remained high throughout the charity event.
“The proceeds of the Winter Solstice Swim will go towards training new members as well as the refurbishment of our base camp,” says Holmes.
He adds that due to the more diverse makeup of the team, there has been a need to expand the facilities’ ability to accommodate more women crew members.
As the Earth continues to turn on its axis, with the success of the swim, Station 9 can prepare to navigate the upcoming summer season with the support of the funds raised to train new recruits and upgrade facilities for their ever-diversifying crew.
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