Jodie Kroone doesn’t need much convincing to swim the aQuellé Midmar Mile. She’s done it before, she loves being in the water, and in her words, she “couldn't think of a reason not to participate” again in 2026.
The 31-year-old first swam Midmar in 2023, six years after a car accident left her with a spinal cord injury and paralysis. The early stages of recovery from her 2017 accident were challenging, as she adjusted to new ways of moving and regaining independence.
“I liked having goals and ticking them off as I got stronger,” she explained. “Once my list was somewhat complete, I began looking for new ways to challenge myself as well as stay active.” That led Kroone to some other local swims, and ultimately to the 2023 aQuellé Midmar.
“From the beginning of my injury, I never wanted to be seen as a victim. Trying new things and exploring what works for me is motivation to keep going. There are so many amazing people who want to help and introduce you to sports/adventures/hobbies.
“I always try to say yes to opportunities and keep an open mind. Through this mindset I’ve seen the world is bigger than just me sitting in my wheelchair. I can also share how disability is not scary and hopefully help shift others’ perceptions.”
Sport has played a major role in that outlook. Alongside swimming, Kroone found unexpected strength through para-surfing after being introduced to the sport by the Made 4 More Foundation. The opportunity led her to success in competition, including winning the KZN championships in 2021.
Swimming, however, holds a special place in her heart. Kroone vividly remembers her first open-water race, where she chose to compete in the able-bodied field.
“[It was] so freeing. I love being in the water,” she said, adding that completing the race and keeping pace with able-bodied swimmers cemented her commitment to making swimming a regular challenge.
Training for and competing at an event like the aQuellé Midmar Mile comes with a few logistical challenges, however. Kroone relies on support from friends and family to get in and out of the water, using an old wheelchair at the start and finish. In the water, she has adapted her technique, swimming on her back using a sculling motion that allows her to breathe comfortably.
For the recently engaged Kroone, sport is about far more than competition. “Sport has given me confidence and kept me physically motivated,” she explained, highlighting how surfing and swimming were goals for her even before her accident, making it especially meaningful that she continues to pursue them.
As she lines up for the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile, Kroone hopes her participation will encourage others to explore the water, regardless of ability or circumstances.
“I think it just encourages others to give swimming a try. It doesn't have to be the Midmar Mile, but getting in the water can be a form of therapy for sure!”
Online entries for the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile, which takes place from 5-8 February, have now closed. Those still wishing to enter can do so at the dam on the day but are encouraged to arrive as early as possible. For more information, head to www.midmarmile.com
Photo credit: Action Pics SA