IF a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, then spare a thought for Ian Swart (53) who is walking from the Mozambican border to Namibia.
It’s going to take about 5 500 000 footsteps to cover the approximate 3 600km from Kosi Bay to Alexander Bay, but the hardy former dairyman believes he is up to the task.
Ian arrived in Richards Bay on Thursday, having set off three weeks ago and soon learning to travel light.
‘I was burdened with fishing and snorkeling gear, lots of food and water, a medicine box and other stuff, but very quickly got rid of all the dead weight.
‘My plan is to travel about 15km per day, five days a week, which should make the total trip about 50 weeks.’
In preparing for his journey, Ian made contact with a number of people who have done similar coastal walks and who gave him solid advice.
Alternating with sandals or tekkies on his feet depending on conditions, Ian is over the ‘blister’ phase as he hugs the coastline as much as is possible given the tides.
Ian is not raising funds for any specific charity but doing the walk for ‘personal and religious reasons’.
‘However, shortly before my walk began I was made aware of the Warriors on Wheels group in the Nelspruit area, which cares for children with spina bifida and attempts to secure specialised wheelchairs. I would love it if people could assist them.’
Ian has been overwhelmed by the kindnesses he has enjoyed thus far, especially from locals along the beaches who helped carry his gear and found drinking water.
He was planning to set foot on the sand again after the weekend.
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