Midmar Mile Tragedy: 63-Year-Old Swimmer Dies After Cardiac Arrest At KwaZulu-Natal Event

A tragic incident unfolded at the aQuellé Midmar Mile on Sunday after a 63-year-old female participant died following a cardiac arrest during the iconic open-water swim at Midmar Dam in KwaZulu-Natal.

Event organisers confirmed the swimmer experienced medical distress while in the water. Another participant raised the alarm, prompting an immediate response from rescue and safety personnel stationed along the course.

Medical teams located the swimmer in full cardiac arrest and began cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) while still in the water, before bringing her safely to shore.

Emergency Response Activated at Midmar Dam Swim

Once on land, the swimmer was handed over to ER24 paramedics and on-site doctors, who continued intensive resuscitation efforts. Despite prolonged attempts to stabilise her condition at the venue, she remained in cardiac arrest.

She was transported to Life Hilton Hospital, where emergency teams persisted with resuscitation. Tragically, these efforts were unsuccessful.

Organisers Reaffirm Safety Measures at aQuellé Midmar Mile

In a statement released on Sunday, organisers said the event’s comprehensive medical and water safety teams were activated immediately in accordance with established emergency protocols.

“The safety of all participants remains the foremost priority of the event,” the statement read.

Organisers also extended their condolences to the swimmer’s family, friends and loved ones, describing the incident as an extremely difficult moment for all involved. No further personal details will be released out of respect for the family’s privacy.

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The aQuellé Midmar Mile community — regarded as one of the largest open-water swimming events in the world — expressed its support for everyone affected by the tragedy, as tributes and messages of sympathy continue to emerge.