Teen swims Midmar Mile in tribute to drowning victim Amaan Khan
An Umkomaas swimmer, who briefly befriended a Chatsworth teen who was swept out to sea last Saturday, swam the Midmar Mile as a tribute to Amaan Khan at the weekend.
Amaan, 13, and his family, from Kharwastan, were swimming at Umzumbe Beach in Hibberdene when they were pulled out to sea in a rip current.
His uncle, Asif Khan, 36, a metro police officer, died a hero when he tried to save him.
Amaan's other uncle, Ridwaan Khan, 40, is recovering from a near drowning experience as he too was caught in the rip current.
When Sohail Khan, 13, saw posts on social media about Amaan’s drowning, and that his body had still not been found, he said he was overwhelmed.
“I recognised him from the KZN Dolphins trials in September last year. He was an excellent cricketer. We chatted throughout the day. He was polite and respectful. Even though we played against each other, we bonded on that day.
“Amaan was kind. I remember admiring how well he played. When I saw that it was him that passed on, I felt sad. On Saturday, I decided to swim the Midmar Mile to honour him. I am sad that our paths will never cross again but all I thought of during the swim was breaking my record time from last year to honour Amaan."
Farzana Khan, Sohail’s mom, said even though her family had never met Amaan or his family, they were in mourning at the tragic loss.
“Every day we think of Amaan and his family. We pray for his family and that they get closure. My son is the same age as Amaan and we believe all children are our children.
"My son told me after the race that while he was swimming, he was becoming tired but all he thought about was Amaan and he pushed on. I hope police divers find Amaan's body, so his family can find some closure,” she said.
Amaan’s father, Saleem Adam, said he was touched by Sohail’s gesture.
“I do not know much about Sohail, but I am really thankful to him and his family for doing such a beautiful gesture in remembrance of Amaan. For such a young boy to do that, it shows what a caring and loving person he will grow up to be.
“His gesture also shows us that Amaan touched so many people's hearts and lives. People were always drawn to his beautiful soul. Amaan was like a magnet and would draw people to him. That was his nature.
"People were always attracted to his lovely persona and his beautiful character. He impacted so many lives although he was so young. We are praying that his body will be found soon. I continue my appeal for boatmen and divers or those with drones to assist us as we keep searching for him,” Adam said.
To assist, contact Saleem Adam on 082 979 6639.