THE FUSE

Tracey Steyn and Ryan Stramrood make history as the first South African skins swimmers to conquer the Cape Triple Crown.

Cape Town, South Africa (12 November 2025) – Ryan Stramrood and Tracey Steyn have set a new benchmark in South African open water swimming, becoming the first “skins” swimmers (wearing only a swimming costume, goggles, and cap) to complete the Cape Triple Crown. Tracey also made history as the first female to achieve this feat, cementing her place in the country’s marathon swimming records.

The Cape Triple Crown represents one of the toughest challenges in open water swimming. In South Africa’s iconic cold water conditions, the challenge consists of three major swims: the Double Robben Island Crossing (14.8 km), the False Bay Crossing (33 km), and the Three Capes Swim (10.2 km).

The Three Capes Swim, connecting Cape Point, Cape Maclear, and the Cape of Good Hope, was completed under the guidance of Derrick Frazer and the Big Bay Events team. For safety reasons, The Cape Long Distance Swimming Association (CLDSA) observed and ratified the swim according to international marathon swimming standards.

Swimmers faced water temperatures starting at 12 degrees, rising to 18 degrees in False Bay. Cape Point, notorious for its strong currents. Despite these challenges, Ryan and Tracey persevered to complete the demanding course.

Tracey, who also serves as Chair of the CLDSA reflected on how far the sport has come.

“The Cape Triple Crown challenge represents everything that is special about swimming in the Cape. The raw beauty, the unpredictability, and the strength of our community. It’s incredible to see how far our sport has come, and to have a challenge that both local and international swimmers can aspire to. The Cape truly offers something extraordinary for swimmers to experience.”

Ryan added shared his excitement after completing the challenge.

“The challenge throws out a mix of tough, wind-swept distances and requires swimmers to perform in some truly chilly water temperatures, making the skins category a coveted prize for me. I am delighted to wear the crown as the first man to complete the challenge in skins and would like to extend a huge congratulations to Tracey Steyn for doing so for the women.”

The Cape Triple Crown was originally formed by Derrick Frazer for Irish marathon swimmer Barry Murphy and was later refined by the CLDSA to ensure safety, accessibility, and international compliance.

With this historic milestone, the CLDSA celebrates the perseverance and skill of South Africa’s top open water swimmers. The Cape Triple Crown continues to showcase Cape Town as a world-class hub for endurance swimming.

Sources: Supplied

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