Olympic swimming champion Chad le Clos has launched a crowdfunding campaign through his foundation to help residents affected by the devastating fire that tore through the Dorchester apartment block in Sea Point, while revealing that he also lost his home in the blaze.

In a statement shared on social media, Le Clos said the fire broke out on the evening of Thursday 30 July while he was competing at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, where he won three medals and set a Commonwealth Games record with 21 career medals.

The fire claimed the life of 93-year-old resident Sam Strime, who died from smoke inhalation.

Neighbour Remembered

Reflecting on the tragedy, Le Clos said he was still coming to terms with the loss of his home and mourning the death of his longtime neighbour.

“Sadly, my home, where I’ve lived for more than a decade, burnt down and there is nothing left to salvage,” he said.

Le Clos also extended his condolences to Strime’s loved ones.

“It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest and most sincere condolences to the family and friends of my neighbour of many years, who tragically lost his life in this fire,” he said.

Expressing support for other residents affected by the disaster, Le Clos said the Sea Point community had shown remarkable resilience.

“To my fellow neighbours whose homes and lives have been severely affected by this fire, please know that you are not alone.

“This is a tight-knit community and it is in moments like these that we lean on one another,” he said.

Le Clos said all donations would go directly towards helping affected neighbours rebuild their lives, with the Chad le Clos Foundation managing the distribution of funds.

He also thanked family, friends and the wider community for their support, saying their compassion had provided comfort during an incredibly difficult time.

Le Clos expressed gratitude to firefighters, first responders, the police and emergency personnel for their swift response and tireless efforts on the night of the fire.

Tragic Loss

Meanwhile, Kevin Strime has taken to social media to express his family’s “heartfelt gratitude” following the tragic passing of his father, Sam.

“We cannot thank you enough for the kindness, compassion, care and support you showed our family. It meant more to us than words can express, and we will always be grateful for everything you did.

“A special thank you to the firefighters who spent hours trying to put out the fire. We know how incredibly hard you worked, and we are so grateful for every effort you made.”

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