Going the extra Mile for Wildlands

This past weekend saw the 41st aQuelle Midmar Mile take place under clear blue skies, warm temperatures and choppy waters.

Huge congratulations must go to Stan Kozlowski, a Wildlands Rhino Ambassador, and his amazing family, Natassaja and Simon Kozlowski who completed all eight gruelling miles for a good cause – Wildland’s Rhino Projects!

“Another year of the 8 Mile Club done and dusted,” said Stan. “I just finished one of the toughest Midmar Mile Races I have ever done- it really was tough going.”

The aQuellé Midmar Mile has been officially recognised by the Guinness World Records as the world’s largest open water swimming event. It has been held annually since 1974, drawing swimmers ranging from ages 5 to 89, and assisting swimmers with multiple disabilities in becoming Olympic champions and world record holders.

Charity is a major part of the Midmar Mile that the event organisers pride themselves on, with numerous swimmers of all shapes and sizes showing their support to various initiatives and campaigns via the popular “8 Mile” initiative.

“Over R 1.1 million was raised for Charity through the 8 Mile Club this year for 15 local charities,” comments Stan. “What a blessing for all those in need. Thanks to all the sponsors and swimmers. What elation!”

Stan, who supports the Wildlands Conservation Trust’s Rhino Conservation Projects, managed to raise over R72 000 for this very worthy cause. “With 1004 Rhino poached during 2013, Wildlands relies on incredible Rhino Ambassadors like Stan Kozlowski to support our Rhino conservation programmes on Somkhanda Game Reserve, a communally-owned game reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal,” states Kevin McCann, Strategic Manager for Wildlands. With a population of both Black and White Rhino, these funds go towards supporting the aerial surveillance and monitoring of these populations through the Zululand Anti-Poaching Wing, a collaborative partnership developed through Project Rhino KZN. “If we are going to turn the tide on the Rhino poaching crisis, the commitment and support of more Ambassadors like Stan are required and very much appreciated!” states McCann.

If you would like to get involved with the 8 Mile Club please contactGayleR@localhost/import-data-post, alternatively if you would like to become a Rhino Ambassador, email KevinM@localhost/import-data-post for more information.