Terence Parkin takes disability inclusion message to Midmar Mile
Good Things Guy | 06.02.2026 16:00
Through a 32-mile, four-day swim, the Olympic silver medallist is using South Africa’s largest open-water event to highlight equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Durban, South Africa (06 February 2026) – As the iconic Midmar Mile celebrates its 53rd edition this week, one of South Africa’s most respected sporting figures is preparing to take on a challenge the event has never seen before. Olympic silver medallist Terence Parkin is set to complete a gruelling 32-mile swim over four days, using the world’s largest open-water swim as a platform to shine a light on disability inclusion in South Africa.
From 5 to 8 February, Terence will enter the water repeatedly at Midmar Dam, pushing his body to the limit while raising awareness and support for the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD). The initiative speaks directly to his life’s work, both as a world-class athlete, but as a long-time advocate for equal access and opportunity for people with disabilities.
The 45-year-old Deaf swimmer is no stranger to breaking boundaries. Alongside his Olympic silver medal, Terence boasts an extraordinary 33 Deaflympics medals, making him one of South Africa’s most decorated swimmers.
“Midmar has always held a special place in my heart. This challenge is about pace, consistency, and most importantly, swimming for a cause that truly matters,” Terence said.
The schedule alone tells the story of the task ahead.
On 5 February, Terence swam 16 miles as part of the event’s Charity Challenge. He returns on Friday, 6 February, to repeat the distance, bringing his total to 32 miles before the main Midmar Mile races even begin.
Over Saturday and Sunday, he will then take part in the traditional one-mile swim alongside thousands of participants from across the country and beyond.
In the lead-up to this moment, Terence has been sharing his preparation journey on social media, offering rare insight into the physical and mental demands of such an undertaking. Training sessions, reflections, and behind-the-scenes moments have steadily built momentum, and now? The moment has arrived!
Beyond the physical achievement, the swim carries a deeper purpose. By partnering with the NCPD, Terence is using one of South Africa’s biggest sporting stages to advocate for inclusion, accessibility, and recognition for persons with disabilities.
As Midmar Mile weekend finally arrives, Terence is set to turn an iconic swim into something even more meaningful.
If you would like to follow Terrence’s journey, you can do so via the link here.
