Howard just knocked off 22km in choppy, ice-cold waters, and he did it for the animals!
Cape Town, South Africa (07 January 2026) – Yes, the same world record holder, Howard Warrington, who smashed 200 Robben Island crossings in support of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA, has made even more waves in animal welfare!
Early on Tuesday morning, he plunged back into the water for an important cause.
Howard took on the False Bay Crossing from Miller’s Point as part of the SPCA’s latest fundraising drive, which aims to fund 10,000 sterilisations this year.
The plan was a 33km swim across the bay, one of the toughest open-water challenges on our coast.
“I can see that the SPCA is always trying to do more, do something. I started thinking about what I could do? What if I take on the toughest swim in South Africa, The False Bay Challenge?” shared Howard with the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.
After braving seven hours in the water and having covered 22km, Howard ended the swim early after battling rough conditions and cramping. While he didn’t reach Rooi-Els shore in this attempt, it’s the impact that mattered.
Even though the crossing is still for Warrington’s taking, the distance he covered this morning raised nearly R65,000 that will go towards the SPCA’s mass sterilisation outreach. And that’s what it’s all about.
“Today, animals are winning because Howard stepped into that water and acted when it mattered most.”
The swim forms part of the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s broader goal for 2026. Last year alone, the organisation cared for more than 23,000 animals and performed over 6300 sterilisations. This incredible work helped reduce the number of stray and surrendered animals entering their shelter.
This year, the goal is greater as the SPCA aims for the 10,000 milestone. Howard’s first attempt has already gone a long way in helping make this happen.
“What fuels us is knowing that we’re not alone, that so many incredible people stand with us. Volunteers, donors, adopters, and those who use our services to keep their animals healthy — they are all part of this mission.” shares the SPCA’s Communications Manager, Belinda Abraham. “Anyone can be a hero. You don’t have to swim across False Bay. You can make a real difference by donating just R50 a month or R600 once-off to help us reach our goal of 10,000 sterilisations this year. Together, we can save lives before suffering begins.”
Howard has swum to support many animal welfare causes, and he’s not done yet. He’s determined to give the False Bay crossing another go. In the meantime, the funds raised will help ensure more animals receive care before they end up in crisis.
“When I see what the SPCA teams go through every day. How many animals they save. I know I have to do something. When I’m in that cold water and struggling, I think of the animals and the amazing people fighting for them. That’s what keeps me going, one stroke at a time. If every stroke helps an animal, I’ll never stop,” says Howard.
If you’d like to find out more about Howard’s swim or support the Cape of Good Hope SPCA’s sterilisation efforts, find more info here.
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