Matthew Caldwell and Henré Louw will spearhead South Africa’s challenge at the upcoming aQuellé Midmar Mile as they look to prevent a third consecutive win by a foreign swimmer, with Frenchman Damien Joly among those potentially standing in their way.
New Zealander Louis Clark won last year’s race and Australian Nick Sloman took the title in 2024, but neither will be on the starting pontoon this time around.
Louw has finished second on two occasions and is eager to take that step up to the top of the podium, while Caldwell is supremely confident in his training ahead of the 5-8 February event.
“I think I'll call it now: top three, not in order, but top three will be among Henré Louw, Damien Joly, the French swimmer, and myself,” reckoned Caldwell, who finished third in last year’s race.
“We will be fighting for first, second, and third, us three, I think. That's my opinion. There are a lot of other swimmers that are looking good at the moment, but right now I think in my books that's the top three.”
While Louw agreed with his rival’s sentiments, pointing to three-time French Olympian Joly as a major threat, he added a few more names to the list of potential winners.
“There are still other good guys like Sven van der Linde, who's also going to be there, and there are a few guys that definitely can show up on the day, like Connor Albertyn as well. But I reckon that's going to be the five guys in the mix that's going to be really racing for the win,” he said.
Albertyn finished fifth in 2025 with Van der Linde sixth, although the duo finished second and third, respectively the year before.
Louw, meanwhile, has identified what he can do better this time around to edge in front.
“Last year I did not finish as well as I wanted to finish. I think my last 400 metres last year was a bit of an issue, like I didn't pick up my kick rate and my stroke rate as much as I should have,” he explained.
“And just exiting really well is also something I would definitely have to focus on if I want to beat these guys.
“At Midmar, some years, the one line is faster than the other line. So you're definitely going to have a few practice swims to see how well you can execute the race.”
Caldwell got the edge on Louw with a better-executed exit in the final aQuellé Midmar Mile seeding swim in Midrand a few weeks ago. He remains confident he’s got what it takes to clinch the title.
“I've been training very hard and the results will show,” he said. “They'll be good. They'll be good.”
As for what keeps bringing him back to Midmar Dam each year, Caldwell added: “Just the people, the experience, just the environment. It's a very nice weekend away. Nice place, good food, good people, good music. The weekend's just lovely. I love the racing as well.”
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.