The "Swim for Natalie" swimathon got off with a splash on Friday when South African stars Annette Cowley and Mariaan Kriel dived in to open the 24-hour event.
Athletes and swimmers are getting into the act to raise funds to help with the medical bills of 17-year-old champion swimmer Natalie du Toit whose leg was amputated after a horror road accident two weeks ago.
The Sports Science Institute in Newlands got the festive treatment with upbeat music blaring from speakers and balloons suspended from buoys between the lanes in the swimming pool.
Swimathon participants included rugby players Toks van der Linde, De Wet Barry, ex-Springboks Morne du Plessis and Rob Louw and para-Olympic athletes Malcolm Pringle and Scott and Rory Field.
Members of the Sports Science Institute will put in as many lengths as possible in 30 minute shifts and Olympic swimmer Sarah Poewe will bring the marathon event to a close at noon on Saturday.
John Snalam, also an amputee, said he had not hesitated about taking part. His leg was amputated in October after a car accident.
"Natalie is a very brave girl and I am here today to do my bit."
Natalie is determined her setback will not prevent her from swimming again. "I am so grateful to everyone who has organised this. This gesture really touches my heart."
She said although she was coping with her disability, she battled to sleep at night.
Natalie said her immediate goal was to start training again, something she would be able to do only in four to six weeks' time.
"I will definitely continue to swim. I have to start from scratch and it will be a long road," she said.
Natalie said: "I want to take part in the 2004 Olympics and for that I have to work."
Anyone wishing to contribute can deposit directly into the Natalie du Toit Fund account at First National Bank, number 6202 329 7551, branch code 200109.