Caitlin Rossiter of Hartbeespoort ended 2024 in the cold Cape waters where she swam the 7.5km Cape Town to Robben Island Crossing on 30 December.

Caitlin Rossiter during the Robben Island Crossing.

The Harties Reflections swimmer and learner at Hartbeespoort High School braced the challenging water temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius and choppy currents to beat the bad weather that was approaching.
“Today I completed my greatest escape from any doubts I might have had in my mind as to what I can accomplish if I really want something. After a 04:00 departure in darkness via small boat to a cold and windy Robben Island, we entered the waters just behind the kelp beds at 05:00 for a “warm up” swim to the island for the official start of the crossing. With waters at 15 degrees Celsius and a cold front coming in with gusty winds, choppy and strong currents were the order of the day,” she said after the swim.
“From swimming with seals for company and kelp to surprise my feet, I was able to recall all the time spent swimming in pool galas, dam swims for freshwater lifesaving and the annual Lifesaving Championships at the coast to keep me believing in what had to be done. I finished my 7.5km swim on the beautiful Big Bay beach with great relief and pride in my accomplishment. I have to give credit to my boat support, the rest of the team from Big Bay Events, my coach Lynette at Harties Reflections and all the support from my family, without which this would not have been achievable.”