Taking to social media, Table Mountain National Park (TMNP) management is urging Noordhoek beachgoers to exercise caution due to dangerous sand conditions, reports Cape {town} Etc.
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‘Table Mountain National Park management would like to caution recreational users of the sinking sand along the Noordhoek Beach shore,’ said TMNP in a Facebook post.
The cautionary warning follows a recent incident where a horse became trapped in the sand. According to the post, the horse was, thankfully, not injured.
While sinking sand is not an uncommon feature of the Noordhoek Beach shore, and there are usually signs of sinking sand patches, it remains essential to be vigilant at all times as there may be times when these patches are undistinguishable.
‘Park users, particularly those on horseback, are advised to remain vigilant and to keep a distance of at least 15 to 20 metres from the lagoon while enjoying the beach,’ TMNP added.
‘We greatly appreciate your cooperation in ensuring safety for all.’
Also read: SANParks warns Noordhoek beachgoers of dangerous sands
The recent incident follows months after SANParks received a report from a horse ride whose horse got stuck in the sand at Noordhoek Beach in January.
According to the horse rider, Marilize Burger, she was riding during high tide in the permitted area, wanting to cross directly opposite the access path entrance when the horse got trapped by the sinking sand at the high tide mark.
While the cause of the sinking sand was not confirmed at the time, Burger speculated that rain from the previous evening might have impacted the integrity of the sand leading to an inability to identify the patches of sinking sand.
After a few failed attempts by the horse to escape the sand, the rider was able to assist, bringing the horse to safety.
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Picture: Screenshot from video