After 20 years of entering the NSRI's annual car competition, Sean McHarry has finally struck gold, winning a brand-new car in this year's second draw.
Sean, who purchased four tickets this year, received the life-changing news on a Friday afternoon while driving with his wife.
"What a start to the weekend! I nearly lost control of my car when they told me I had won," Sean recalls, laughing about how he momentarily let go of the steering wheel in disbelief. "I screamed. It was unreal."
For Sean, the NSRI is more than just a charity; it's a cause close to his heart. Two decades ago, after a harrowing incident at sea where strong currents nearly swept him away, Sean became acutely aware of the importance of the NSRI's life-saving work.
"I had my own rubber duck boat and almost didn't make it back that day," Sean shared. "Ever since then, I've supported the NSRI because I know first-hand how crucial their work is. They might not have saved me that day, but they save countless lives every year."
Sean's win has become a point of celebration not just for him but for his entire network of friends and family. "I put everyone on a conference call – news spread far and wide, even overseas!"
Two more cars are still up for grabs in 2024. Tickets are just R695, and the funds go directly towards the NSRI's critical rescue operations.
NSRI Station 50 in Umhlanga: A vital link in water safety
Read MoreRoy Wienand, NSRI Durban coxswain, said: At 11h07, Tuesday, 10 November, NSRI Durban and NSRI Ballito duty crews were activated following reports of an SOS distress signal received from a paddler on a surf-ski 20 nautical miles offshore of Ballito. ...
Glen Preston, NSRI Selly Beach station commander, said: At 07h08, Monday, 9 November, NSRI Shelly Beach duty crew were activated following a request for medical assistance from a local charter boat. ...
Glen Preston, NSRI Shelly Beach station commander, said: At 18h02, Saturday, 7 November, NSRI Shelly Beach duty crew and Police Search and Rescue were activated following eyewitness reports of a drowning in progress at Umzumbe Beach, KZN South Coast. ...