Organisers advise of cancellation of Sunday’s Malabar Magic Ocean Swim

Following the death of a swimmer at Sydney’s Little Bay yesterday, the organising committee for the Murray Rose Malabar Magic Ocean Swim scheduled to be held on Sunday (20th February) have this afternoon advised that the event has been cancelled for 2022.

A media release from the organisers advises “the organising committee extends our thoughts and prayers to the family of the swimmer who was so tragically taken yesterday. Out of respect for the swimmer and his family, and following wide consultation with Randwick Council and experienced, senior Surf Life Saving personnel, we believe that cancelling the 2022 swim is appropriate.

“The Malabar Magic is a community event and we respect the local Malabar and broader Randwick communities.

“We acknowledge and thank the many first responders and surf life-saving personnel who protect and patrol our beaches. The Malabar Magic is the primary fundraiser for Rainbow Club, which operate 36 Clubs across NSW and helps 1,400 children with a disability learn to swim each week.

“Our purpose is to bring the joy of swimming to children with a disability and the Malabar Magic is our signature event for our supporters to celebrate our shared love of ocean swimming while promoting and highlighting the great work that Rainbow Club does.

“Through generous donations, fundraising and entry fees our swimming community and corporate supporters have already raised over $128,000 for Rainbow Club. These funds will enable Rainbow Club to open 10 new swimming clubs in the coming year to meet the growing demand for our service.

“Over the 14 years of the event, the Malabar Magic has grown from the early passion and vision of Olympic Legend Murray Rose to become a celebration of inclusion and swimming across the broader community.

“Following the challenges of the pandemic in recent years, we have seen the surge and impact ocean swimming as a pastime, passion and form of exercise has made on many Sydneysiders. We have shared with the ocean swimming community as many of our wonderful events have returned with such strong numbers so far through this summer.

“Our volunteer organising committee is grateful and appreciative for the generous support we receive for Rainbow Club children and their families through your fundraising and presence at the Malabar Magic Ocean Swim.

“On behalf of the volunteers, teachers, members and families that make up our Rainbow Clubs, we thank you for your continued support of the Malabar Magic and we look forward to welcoming you back in 2023.”

Ocean swim image used for illustrative purposes.