Local Hero, 80, Who Conquered Robben Island Swim Just Weeks Ago, Dies as Sea Kayak Capsizes

South Africa mourns the loss of open-water swimmer John Flanigan, 80, after kayaking tragedy

South Africa’s swimming community is mourning the loss of legendary open-water swimmer John Flanigan, 80, who tragically passed away while kayaking off Bloubergstrand

Local hero, 80, who conquered Robben Island swim just weeks ago, dies as sea kayak capsizes

Just a few weeks after etching his name into South African sporting history as one of the oldest swimmers to conquer the Robben Island crossing, 80-year-old John Flanigan has died in a tragic sea-kayaking accident at Bloubergstrand in Cape Town.

Tributes pour in following local Blouberg hero John Flanigan’s passing

Tributes are pouring in following the passing of a highly respected member of the Blouberg community, John Flanigan, following an incident at sea while kayaking on Saturday, 31 January.   Just three weeks ago, Flanigan, aged 80, became the oldest person ever to complete the Robben Island swim crossing.   According to NSRI Melkbosstrand station commander Rowan Marais, rescue crews were alerted at 7:45 am on Saturday after eyewitnesses reported an…

Remembering John Flanigan and the Community He Built

John Flanigan’s story is not about one extraordinary moment, but about a lifetime of ordinary ones done with care. And in that, he taught many how to keep going.   Western Cape, South Africa (01 February 2026) – John Flanigan’s life was shaped by the sea but defined by people. A husband of nearly 60 years, a friend to many, and a steady presence in the Blouberg ocean community, John showed that adventure doesn’t have an age limit and that connec…

Tragedy at sea: Local hero John Flanigan, 80, dies after kayaking incident

The vibrant community of Bloubergstrand is in mourning following the tragic passing of 80-year-old John Flanigan, a revered figure known for his adventurous spirit and passion for the sea, reports Cape {town} Etc. Flanigan’s life came to an unexpected end on Saturday morning after an incident occurred while he was kayaking offshore from On-the-Rocks. Flanigan, known for his spirited personality and dedication to ocean sports, made headlines jus…