12-Year-Old Eva Conquers Robben Island Swim for Animals Who Cannot Speak for Themselves

Photo Credit: Kindel Media via Pexels

Eva Capri’s mission to protect those who cannot speak for themselves saw the 12-year-old hero conquer a gruelling 7.4km open-water swim from Robben Island to Blouberg Beach, raising over R18,100 so far for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.

Cape Town, South Africa (13 November 2026) – Animal lovers who go above and beyond to defend creatures in need never cease to amaze and inspire us. It is for that very reason that we will never stop celebrating them – and the triumphs born from their care for the vulnerable and voiceless.

Twelve-year-old Eva Capri is one such hero. On Wednesday, she pushed herself to the absolute limit for this very cause, conquering the gruelling 7.4km open-water swim from Robben Island to Blouberg Beach in an incredible two hours and 48 minutes.

Months of dedication, training, and patiently waiting for favourable sea conditions have finally paid off. Accompanied by Team SPCA Athlete Howard Warrington, Eva took on one of Cape Town’s most iconic open-water swimming challenges and made it all the way to shore!

But what makes this achievement even more remarkable is the reason behind it. Eva wasn’t just swimming to cross the ocean; she was swimming for animals who cannot speak for themselves.

Born in Somerset West, Eva has always had a deep love for animals and swimming. Over the past two years, her passion for open-water swimming has grown, and she decided to turn that passion into something meaningful by raising funds for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.

In her own words:

“I’m on a mission to protect those who cannot speak for themselves.”

And this mission is alive, with animal lovers all around taking notice. Eva has already raised 60% of her target, with funds currently at R18,100 for the SPCA!

“Every donation to Eva’s campaign supports our work rescuing animals from cruelty and neglect, providing essential veterinary care, and ensuring vulnerable animals receive the food, shelter, and compassion they deserve,” says the Cape of Good Hope SPCA.

Eva was accompanied on her remarkable journey by Team SPCA Athlete Howard Warrington, who is no stranger to the waters between Robben Island and Blouberg.

In 2024, Howard completed an astonishing 200 swims between Robben Island and Blouberg, setting a Guinness World Record! His incredible campaign raised more than R160,000 for the Cape of Good Hope SPCA Animal Hospital, helping to provide vital veterinary treatment to animals in need.

“A special thank you to Howard for accompanying Eva and helping her achieve this incredible milestone!”

The Cape of Good Hope SPCA is incredibly proud of Eva and thanks her for demonstrating that making a difference has nothing to do with age and everything to do with heart.

“You’ve not only conquered 7.4 kilometres of open ocean, but you’ve also inspired us all with your determination, kindness, and compassion.”

The swim may be over, but Eva’s mission to help animals in need continues. Please consider making a donation to her crowdfunding campaign to help the SPCA celebrate this extraordinary achievement.