Topaz swim buddies make waves in Blouberg

What started as a small WhatsApp group for casual sea swimmers in Bloubergstrand has grown into a thriving coastal community with nearly 450 members, and now, the founder is gearing up for a record-breaking swim to Robben Island.

Topaz Swim Buddies, founded a year and a half ago, is the brainchild of 79-year-old John Flanigan, also known as CoastalPop, alongside his wife of 58 years, Ann.

 “We’ve built a community of ocean swimmers, from casual dippers to Robben Island veterans who simply wanted to share their love of ocean swimming,” he said.

The group gets its name from the Topaz crystal, known for its cooling properties – a fitting metaphor for the bracing Atlantic waters the swimmers frequent.

“We began with just 50 people. It grew to 100, and now there are over 450 who regularly join in on the fun,” he said.

The group uses WhatsApp messages and polls each day to coordinate swim times and sea conditions for the following day.

While there’s no set schedule, he said that many swimmers meet daily at 5pm on weekdays and at 2pm on weekends and public holidays

“There are no strict rules. People swim at their own pace, on their own terms. The group consists of people from different age groups and fitness levels,” said Mr Flanigan.

Swims take place in front of Ons Huisie restaurant, with panoramic views of Table Mountain providing a majestic backdrop.

 “We’re a friendly group of like-minded people who just love being in the ocean. Whether you’re bobbing, swimming, or just spectating, all are welcome here," he said.

Longer swims – stretching two to three kilometres along the coast – are also arranged to help “keep the momentum going,” he said.

Mr Flanigan encouraged the public to take part, saying it will make a visible difference and also boost mental and emotional well-being.

“Some come along just to make friends and we have a laugh,” he said.

While the group is built on camaraderie and shared love for the sea, its founder is taking his passion to the next level.

This November, just weeks after turning 80, he plans to swim the iconic 7.4km route from Robben Island to Blouberg.

If successful, he will become the oldest person to ever complete the notoriously tough cold-water crossing.

“For me, this isn’t about breaking records. It’s about resilience, recovery, and my lifelong love of the ocean,” said Mr Flanigan.

His journey is nothing short of remarkable. A decade ago, he was diagnosed with Pulmonary Alveolar Proteinosis (PAP), a rare and life-threatening lung condition.

He spent almost two years on 24/7 oxygen and was told he had just months to live. Several procedures failed.

Then came a medical breakthrough with the help of Dr Greg Symons and his team at UCT Private Academic Hospital and Groote Schuur. He underwent a risky six-hour lung lavage on ECMO — becoming the first PAP patient at Groote Schuur to do so. 

That lifestyle includes a six-decade-long connection to the sea. 

He has surfed waveskis competitively, raced Hobie and Mosquito catamarans, windsurfed, completed over 500 scuba dives as a PADI Divemaster, and paddled surfskis and sea kayaks along the South African coastline.

“I’ve dived with sharks, kite-surfed, and now I swim in open water,” he said.

“The ocean has always been my sanctuary, my challenge, and my teacher.”

As he prepares for the November swim, he says his goal is not speed, but meaning.

While he admitted he doesn’t always follow a strict diet and occasionally indulges in a guilty pleasure, he said he’s putting everything into his upcoming challenge.

“At 80, I want to show that we’re never too old to strive, grow, or inspire. I hope my journey encourages others - young and old - to stay active, stay curious, and stay connected to nature,” he said.

If you would like to join the Topaz Swim Buddies, you can join them at the beach or join their group on Facebook.