Caldwell and Lotter secure maiden titles

SOUTH Africa's men swimmers delivered on a bold pre-race promise at Midmar Dam yesterday, ending years of foreign dominance in the men’ elite race, as Matthew Caldwell led an all-South African podium at the iconic aQuellé Midmar Mile.

- ROWAN CALLAGHAN

MIDMAR Mile men's elite race winner Matthew Caldwell is hoited high by silver medallist Henré Louw (left) and bronze medallist Connor Albertyn after Sunday's race. I Supplied

In the buildup to the world’s largest open-water swim, Caldwell had confidently predicted that the Top 3 would feature himself, compatriot Henré Louw and French Olympian Damien Joly. While Joly ultimately missed out on the podium, Caldwell’s broader statement of intent - that local swimmers were ready to reclaim control — rang emphatically true.