Olympic legend Terence Parkin swims for inclusion at Midmar Mile

Terence Parkin, the legendary Deaf swimmer who has represented South Africa at the Olympic Games, Deaflympics, World Cup, and Pan Pacific competitions, is preparing for his most gruelling aquatic feat yet.

Parkin is currently training for a demanding four-day challenge at Midmar Dam, running from 5 to 8 February. While the event is famous for its mile-long sprints, Parkin is pushing the boundaries of endurance to support the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD). 

A SPECIAL PARTNERSHIP

“Midmar has always held a special place in my heart,” Parkin says. “There is so much more about Midmar than just a mile swim. It is the vibe, the people, the culture, and the feeling of being part of something bigger as it has continued to grow.”

Parkin credits the event's Director, Wayne Riddin, for providing years of sponsorships and support.

“As Midmar grew, I grew too. I pushed Midmar to the 16-miler, and this year it will be the 32-miler for the first time. It has been, and always will be, a special partnership.”

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THE 32-MILE MISSION

The 45-year-old swimmer told Eyewitness News that his 32-mile attempt is a historic first for the event. His schedule includes:

February 5: 16 miles as part of the Charity Challenge.

February 6: An additional 16 miles.

February 7–8: Participation in the main Midmar Mile races (conditions permitting).

“The strategy is very different,” Parkin explains.

“I am not focused on swimming fast, but rather at a pace I can maintain for the many miles I will need to cover. When one competes, it is all about time and speed. This will be about pace and consistency.”

SWIMMING FOR A CAUSE

As an Ambassador for the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, Parkin views this challenge as a vital platform for advocacy.

“My personal disability of being Deaf, being involved in the Deaf community, and supporting disabled communities... means my support to the NCPD is what is meant to be and what is right. Through lived experience, I know that living with a disability in society is very challenging. Such awareness at a huge event like Midmar is priceless.”

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

Parkin remains the most successful athlete in the history of the Deaflympics (which began in 1924), having participated in five Summer Games. His illustrious career highlights include:

Olympic Glory: Silver medalist in the 200m breaststroke at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Deaflympics Mastery: 33 career medals, including 5 golds at the 1997 World Games for the Deaf.

Global Recognition: The only Deaf swimmer to make the FINA elite ranking list (1999 and 2000).

Awards: Four-time Sportsman of the Year winner (1997, 2000, 2001, and 2009).

When asked if he is chasing a specific medal count, Parkin remains grounded. “There was never a specific number in mind. At this stage, and at my age, I am happy with the number of medals I achieved. It’s more now about safety in the water, sport development, equal opportunities and, of course, inclusion.”