‘Panicked’: Cresta Mall ‘mermaid’ shares near-drowning experience [watch]

A swim instructor who moonlights as a “mermaid” at Cresta Shopping Centre in Johannesburg explained her near-drowning experience in a viral video.

Gabriela Green-Thompson – whose character Nokukhanya entertains the public at the CrestAquarium – explained her version of events in a TikTok video.

The incident reportedly took place over the weekend.

CRESTA MALL ‘MERMAID’ EXPLAINS VIRAL VIDEO

In the video, Nokukhanya described her “unfortunate disrobing,” where she had to rip off her “tail” and swim to the surface of the large tank.

She said: “As you can see, my tail got caught in the coral, and due to the air releasing out of my lungs, I could not retrieve it. And therefore, I did a quick release.

She continued: “Remember safety first.”

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While many followers praised her for her quick thinking, Nokukhanya admitted being fearful.

She added: “I panicked for a second but assessed the situation and did what needed to be done”.

@nokukhanya.the_mermaid Replying to @jax6804 Remember Water Has its Dangers Every Professional Mermaid has to know how to eject out of their tails in case of an emergency. It's unfortunate that it spoilt the magic in the moment, but it proves to be an important teaching opportunity. Safe swimming this festive season everyone 💛🧜🏽‍♀️💛 #mermaid #watersaftey #watersafteyawareness #mermaids ♬ Sunny – TELL YOUR STORY music by Ikson™

WATER SPORT GAINS MOMENTUM IN SOUTH AFRICA

Meanwhile, “mermaiding” – the water sport that requires diving with a monofin and mermaid’s tail – has increased activity amongst South Africans.

“It’s for fitness, it’s for fun, it’s for fantasy, it’s therapy — but most of all, mermaiding is a sport,” Merschool instructor Izelle Nair told AFP.

At various swimming academies around the country, participants can learn the sport through an accredited course. Some even go on to practise competitively.

In May, SA held its first “Merlympics” where mermaids and mermen competed for medals and cash prizes.