Chad le Clos to tackle 8-mile challenge at Midmar Mile in support of his foundation

South African swimming superstar Chad le Clos will be taking on the gruelling 8-Mile Charity Challenge at next year’s aQuellé Midmar Mile, lending his support to those swimmers raising money for the Chad le Clos Foundation at the event next February.

The 53rd aQuellé Midmar Mile takes place from 5–8 February 2026, with the Charity Challenge events on the first two days and the main events on the last two.

The 2012 Olympic champion has long been associated with the world’s largest open-water swimming event but has not participated on a regular basis, rather focusing his efforts on the pool, where he has carved out an impressive international career.

“I’m very excited. To be honest, I haven't swum much at Midmar. I've always been there whenever I could… I've always supported the Midmar Mile long before my foundation was involved, but I just really love to be there. I think it's a great day. I think from Thursday through to the Sunday, it's just a great weekend,” he said.

The 33-year-old star added that the inclusiveness of the event remains one of its standoutfeatures. “I think what's quite unique about Midmar is that it seems to grow every year, and the fact that it just gives everybody of all ages the opportunity to compete. You know, you can be in your 80s… It's incredible. Swimming is a great sport for everybody.”

Established in 2018, the Chad le Clos Foundation works to create safer access to water across South Africa through drowning-prevention initiatives, water-safety education, and community engagement. Its programmes include developing young swimmers from disadvantaged communities, supporting promising talent with coaching and competition opportunities, and launching long-term projects aimed at reducing drownings in open-water and pool environments.

“In terms of the foundation, it's been a huge blessing to be a part of Midmar. Last year we raised a decent amount of money for charity, which is really, really great,” he said.