The historic annual Fish Hoek Mile is making a roaring comeback and hopes to attract even more avid swimmers this year.

Dawid Mocke, Vice Chair of the Fish Hoek Surf Lifesaving Club (FHSLC), recently shared the deep history and vital purpose behind the event.

Having been with the club since he was an 11-year-old “nipper” he had witnessed the race evolve from an exclusive, traditional inter-lifesaving club competition — where athletes raced fiercely in their club colours — into a massive public phenomenon.

By the early 2000s, after opening to the general public in the 1990s, participation peaked at over 500 swimmers.

However, the event faced a lengthy hiatus during False Bay’s “shark era,” which forced the suspension of long-distance swims along the coast.

“Two years ago we decided it was safe to host again,” Mocke noted.

Along with the revival came a seasonal shift: traditionally held on 16 December, the race has now found a new home in mid-September. The community’s response has been overwhelming. Interest has doubled year-on-year, forcing organisers to cap this year’s entries at 350 swimmers to ensure safety and logistics.

Beyond the competitive thrill, the Fish Hoek Mile serves a critical purpose as FHSLC’s primary fundraising event.

The funds are desperately needed to maintain the club’s infrastructure and essential lifesaving facilities.

From October through to Easter a dedicated crew of juniors, young adults and veteran master lifesavers will volunteer approximately 350 hours. Patrols run through every weekend and public holiday, averaging five real-life rescues, up to 60 critical assists, and over 400 first-aid treatments each season.

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