Ultra-endurance swimmer and Guinness World Record holder Howard Warrington is preparing for his toughest challenge yet: a 33 km non-stop swim across False Bay to raise crucial funds and awareness for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s ambitious sterilisation goal.
The Somerset West local, renowned for his 216 Robben Island crossings, nine full Ironman triathlons, and an English Channel swim, has dedicated his remarkable feats to animals in need. The 60-year-old latest endeavour, scheduled for Thursday 20 November, will see him battling the rough and icy waters from Simon’s Town to Rooiels in just a Speedo for an estimated 13 hours.
“As the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s sport ambassador, I can see that the organisation is always trying to do more, so I started thinking about what more I could do,” Warrington explained.
“Then a few months ago, I thought, what if I take on the toughest sea swim in South Africa, and swim across False Bay.”
The organisation highlighted Warrington’s impact, noting that last year alone, they cared for 23 621 unwanted and unloved animals. Thanks to supporters like him, they performed 6 307 sterilisations, contributing to a 12% drop in stray and surrendered animals entering their shelter.
This year, the SPCA is pushing for an incredible 10 000 sterilisations, recognising that “every sterilisation prevents suffering before it starts”.
Warrington echoed this sentiment, stating: “Every day, countless dogs and cats are born into a life of absolute struggle, and most are unwanted, unfed, abused and unloved. By preventing unwanted litters, we can help stop suffering before it starts – through sterilisation. It is the most powerful way to break this horrible cycle.”
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Belinda Abraham, spokesperson for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, admitted her initial reaction to Warrington’s idea. “When Howard contacted us, we thought it sounded a little crazy at first but then again, so was doing 200 Robben Island swims,” she said.
“If anyone can take on a challenge like the False Bay Crossing, it’s Howard. He always follows through, just like our teams who jump in and do whatever they can to help.”
While Warrington tackles the monumental False Bay Crossing, he emphasises that anyone can make a difference and help. “You don’t have to swim across False Bay,” he said.
“You can make a real difference by donating just R50 a month or R600 once-off to help us reach our goal of 10 000 sterilisations this year. Together, we can save lives before suffering begins.”
Abraham added: “What fuels us, is knowing that we’re not alone, that so many incredible people stand with us. Volunteers, donors, adopters, and those who use our services to keep their animals healthy – they are all part of this mission.”
Donations to support Warrington’s swim and the SPCA’s sterilisation drive can be made via the Cape of Good Hope SPCA website or by contacting their offices on 021 700 4140.
Jonathan, Craig and Nathan Dawson from Davidson’s Boards will skipper Howard and his crew across False Bay on their boat Pegasus.
An automatic identification system onboard will enable Howard’s progress to be tracked via marine tracker. A link will be shared closer to the swim.
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