Taariqa aims to improve her Midmar Mile time while advocating for those with disabilities

IN A DISPLAY of strength and determination, quadriplegic swimmer Taariqa Archary is gearing up for her second aQuelle Midmar Mile this weekend, aiming to beat her prior time while also advocating for those with disabilities. 

Last year, Archary made headlines by completing the iconic swim in a remarkable 1 hour and 26 minutes. This time, she is poised to improve her performance by a solid 10 minutes, thanks to an intensive regimen of hydrotherapy, biokinetics, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and personalised training.

The 53rd aQuellé Midmar Mile, renowned as the world's largest open water swim, will see thousands of swimmers - from novices to seasoned competitors - gathering at the water’s edge, united by the spirit of endurance and community. 

Archary, 38, from Sandton, Johannesburg, has devoted the last two years to fine-tuning her skills in preparation for this significant event.

With the expert guidance of her main trainer, Nicole Fish from Fish and Field Biokineticists, Archary has faced the challenges of open water swimming head-on.

She has participated in five dam swims leading up to the Midmar Mile, and now feels well-equipped to take on the water this race day.

"The swim is about preparing myself mentally and physically," said Archary. 

"My trainers help with the physical training, and my family and friends provide invaluable emotional support. This year, I have a total of 10 support swimmers, including family and friends." 

Despite her life-altering spinal injury sustained eight years ago, she's determined to continue her journey not only for herself but for a larger cause.

After suffering a spinal cord injury in a car accident caused by a drunk driver just two weeks after her 30th birthday, Archary has worked tirelessly to ensure that her adversity becomes an avenue for change. 

The accident left her in the ICU for 21 days, followed by a long rehabilitation journey, where she discovered hydrotherapy as a means to regain strength and mobility.

Even more significant than her swimming accomplishments is Archary's commitment to the non-profit organisation, Hands that SSServe that was founded by family in honour of her father-in-law Sundress Archary and her uncle Steve Chockalingam known for their community service. 

Hands that SSServe focuses on high-impact, sustainable projects aimed at combating food insecurity, improving education, and enhancing healthcare.

"They lived a life of community service, and Hands that SSServe continues their legacy. Our organisation strives to lift those experiencing hardship by leveraging the skills of three generations and building strong partnerships within the community. Our aim is to embody the spirit of compassion that our ancestors demonstrated, ensuring it translates into tangible support for those who need it most."

As Archary prepares for the Midmar Mile, she is not just racing against the clock but swimming towards a brighter future for many, embodying resilience and the unwavering spirit of service that inspires those around her.

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