Herman van der Westhuizen, a businessman from Stellenbosch, recently accomplished the Oceans Seven swim challenge, becoming the second South African and the 24th person worldwide to achieve this extraordinary feat. He began his 13-year-long journey by swimming across the English Channel in 2012.
The Oceans Seven Challenge
The Oceans Seven Challenge, recognized by the World Open Water Swimming Association, consists of completing seven extreme open ocean swims in various locations worldwide. Each swim presents significant challenges, including varying water temperatures, strong currents, rough seas, nighttime swimming, disorientation, nausea, and the potential encounter with hazardous marine life. Preparation for each swim can take up to two years.
The Seven Swims
The seven swims included in the Oceans Seven Challenge are the English Channel, North Sea Channel, Molokai Channel, Cook Strait, Catalina Channel, Tsugaru Strait, and the Strait of Gibraltar. Swimmers are required to wear only a Speedo and goggles, with no touching the support boat allowed.
Herman’s Journey
Herman van der Westhuizen’s journey through the Oceans Seven saw him face numerous challenges and setbacks. In 2018, he had a terrifying experience in the Tsugaru Channel in northern Japan, where he nearly suffered a heart attack 800 meters from the finish line. He successfully completed the swim in 2019, though stormy conditions and heavy rain made the experience harrowing.
In 2020, he encountered strong currents while attempting the Cook Strait, serving as a reminder that nature ultimately determines the outcome of these swims. Undaunted, van der Westhuizen pressed on, conquering the Molokai Channel in Hawaii with a 15-hour swim that covered 45 km, battling disorienting darkness and powerful swells.
February 2023 marked the completion of the Cook Strait, though van der Westhuizen had to alter his plan and swim in the opposite direction. His most recent swim, the Strait of Gibraltar, took place just two weeks ago, leaving him with feelings of humility, immense gratitude towards his family and crew, and a profound appreciation for the power of the human body and mind.
Dedication and Perseverance
Van der Westhuizen’s dedication and perseverance throughout his Oceans Seven journey are truly inspiring. Despite the numerous challenges, he remained determined to achieve his goal. Among the memorable moments was the emotional swim across the Catalina Channel, where his family joined him for the last 100 meters in the cold 14-degree water.
Reflections and Future Plans
With this impressive accomplishment now under his belt, van der Westhuizen plans to refocus his time and energy on his family. While remaining open to new opportunities, he cautions against chasing the “next big thing” impulsively. His journey serves as a testament to the strength of human resilience and the power of determination, which will undoubtedly inspire others to pursue their dreams, however arduous they may be.
