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BIG HEARTS.
BIG ADVENTURE.

Madswimmer is a charity taking on big swims to tackle big issues,
and to raise money for children’s charities

Our Swims

Madswimmer is a charity taking on big swims to tackle big issues, and to raise money for children’s charities

Donate

Madswimmer is a charity taking on big swims to tackle big issues, and to raise money for children’s charities

Participate

Madswimmer is a charity taking on big swims to tackle big issues, and to raise money for children’s charities

Our Next

NEW MADSWIMMER WORLD RECORD

Phuta Hiunchali Himalayas
Worlds highest altitude swim

10 May 2024
6,405 meters

Days
Hours
Minutes
Seconds

The Sky Is the Limit

NEW MADSWIMMER
WORLD RECORD

Phuta Hiunchali Himalayas
Worlds highest altitude swim

10 May 2024
6,405 meters

The Sky Is the Limit

About Us

The Madswimmer story is one of great friendships

The Madswimmer story is one of great friendships, adventure, daring bets and big hearts.

What started off as a late winter night’s bet in a chalet on the French slopes in 2009 has sparked a group of brave individuals to embark on a series of incredible swims every year to raise funds for children in need …

In 2009 Jean Craven and Tim Ziehl took a bet from their friends that they could swim across the Strait of Gibraltar, linking Europe with Africa. So began Stage One and they completed the 17 km crossing from Spain to Morocco in just 4 hours and 22 minutes.

Feeling sorry for taking betting monies collected from their friends, they decided to donate the money to various children’s charities and orphanages and Madswimmer, a registered charity, was born.

Celebrating 10 years in 2020, Madswimmer has gone from strength to strength, building a following of over 10000 fans on social media and a team of more than 400 swimmers from around the world. Since it’s inception, Madswimmer has raised over USD900000 for children’s charities.

Our Numbers Speaks Volumes

Our numbers speak to the many charities we have supported over the past 12 years. I shows our commitment and dedication to making young children lives  better. In the spirit of humanity we push ourselves to make sacrifices and in so doing we ask you to support our cause for future generations ensuring them a better start in life.
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Funds Raised
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Completed Swims
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Members Worldwide
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Years Strong

Our
Charities

These and other charities are supported by our swims.

Red Cross Children's Hospital, Cape Town

The Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town stands as a beacon of hope, providing critical pediatric care to children from across South Africa. Renowned for its comprehensive medical services, this institution is dedicated to treating young patients with a wide range of health conditions. Support for the Red Cross Children’s Hospital ensures the continuation and expansion of their life-saving work, offering a brighter future for children in need.

Adolescent Oncology Unit, Universitas Academic Annex Hospital, Bloemfontein

The Adolescent Oncology Unit at Universitas Academic Annex Hospital in Bloemfontein focuses on providing specialized care for teenagers battling cancer. This unit is a crucial part of the hospital’s mission to offer a supportive and comfortable environment for young patients and their families. Donations help to fund renovations, create a lounge and entertainment area, and ensure that teenagers facing cancer receive the best possible care during their fight.

Putha Village Porter Shelter Project & Down Jacket Sponsorship

In the heart of the Himalayas, the Putha Village Porter Shelter Project aims to construct a sanctuary for the industrious porters who facilitate mountain expeditions. Concurrently, our commitment to the local community has led to the sponsorship of 175 branded “ADI: Madswimmer” down jackets, ensuring the children of these remote areas are warmly clothed against the harsh mountain climate. This initiative not only provides practical aid but also fosters a spirit of camaraderie and support between adventurers and the local populace. As we prepare for our journey, we look forward to discussing further engagement with this project and continuing our support of the resilient communities that are integral to the spirit of exploration.

Our
Charities

These and other charities are supported by our swims.

Red Cross Children's Hospital, Cape Town

The Red Cross Children’s Hospital in Cape Town stands as a beacon of hope, providing critical pediatric care to children from across South Africa. Renowned for its comprehensive medical services, this institution is dedicated to treating young patients with a wide range of health conditions. Support for the Red Cross Children’s Hospital ensures the continuation and expansion of their life-saving work, offering a brighter future for children in need.

Adolescent Oncology Unit, Universitas Academic Annex Hospital, Bloemfontein

The Adolescent Oncology Unit at Universitas Academic Annex Hospital in Bloemfontein focuses on providing specialized care for teenagers battling cancer. This unit is a crucial part of the hospital’s mission to offer a supportive and comfortable environment for young patients and their families. Donations help to fund renovations, create a lounge and entertainment area, and ensure that teenagers facing cancer receive the best possible care during their fight.

Stories of Team

Great Stories with Great Journeys

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Over a Decade of Memories!

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