John Flanigan, 80, Dies In Kayaking Accident Off Blouberg Beach

Tragedy has struck South Africa’s swimming fraternity following the death of celebrated open-water swimmer John Flanigan. The 80-year-old died on Saturday morning after a kayaking incident off Blouberg Beach.

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) said its crews spotted an unmanned, capsised kayak drifting offshore near Bloubergstrand. When rescuers reached the scene, Flanigan was found unresponsive in the water.

He was immediately brought aboard a rescue craft, where medics began emergency treatment in an effort to revive him.

NSRI Confirms Rescue Efforts and Investigation

NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon confirmed that cardiopulmonary resuscitation was carried out at sea, but the attempts were unsuccessful.

“Despite extensive CPR efforts, after all efforts to resuscitate the man were exhausted, sadly he was declared deceased by paramedics,” said Lambinon.

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“The SA Police Services attended at the scene where the body of the man was taken into the care of Police and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services.”

Lambinon added that the circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation, noting that the “highly respected” veteran had been paddling his sea kayak offshore when the accident occurred.

Open-Water Swimming Icon, John Flanigan Leaves Lasting Legacy

Flanigan’s passing follows closely on the heels of a remarkable personal milestone. He recently completed the iconic 7.5km open-water swim from Robben Island to Blouberg.

At 80, he became the oldest person to finish the demanding crossing, a feat that showed his endurance and secured his place as a local legend within the sport.