Greg sent us some images of his first – and successful – attempt to swim the Midmar Mile. His wife Pen was there in support, as was his brother, who made a surprise arrival from the UK.

Before the race with wife Pen.

Greg's brother makes a surprise arrival from the UK.

Determination.

At the water's edge.

In the water.

Proud wife.

Mission accomplished.

At the finish with a hard earned medal.

Greg’s preparation for Midmar Mile
Friday, February 11, 2011

We spoke to Greg on the eve of the Midmar Mile, the world’s largest open water swim. We found him in relaxed mood, drinking a glass of red wine with his wife Pen.

How are you feeling ahead of the swim?
Anxious and excited. Just trying to get my mind right. The race is on Saturday morning at 8.30.

How long have you been training?
Since halfway through November, three times a week.

When was your last swim?
On Monday. I’m just taking it easy this week, resting and getting some early nights. I’m trying to get my head in the right place.

Are you at all worried?
No, I’m just trying to think positive. I’ll be swimming with two mates from school, the guys who challenged me to do it in the first place, so I’m just going to enjoy it. I’m doing it in a pair of baggies, swimming backstroke.

Are Themba (Greg’s trainer) and Pen going up with you?
Pen’s flying with me. Themba flew up yesterday, he’s actually from Natal. I think Themba’s swimming with SANDF team. He’s done it three or four times already.

Are you aiming for a time?
I’m not worried about that, it’s my first event, so I just want to complete it. The organisers say if you haven’t reached the halfway point in half an hour they have to stop you, but I spoke to them and told them I’m disabled, so I think they’ll let me just me push on at my own pace.