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Great Expectations

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While some described Clarence Munyai’s fourth place in the Commonwealth Games 200m final as disappointing, it was actually an incredible achievement by an emerging young star. – BY SEAN FALCONER

One of the headlines on a well-known South African online sport portal that caught the eye during the recent Commonwealth Games in Australia was “Munyai Flops in 200m Final on Gold Coast.” That headline showed just how much expectation SA’s sprinters currently carry on their shoulders. After all, it wasn’t so very long ago that our men’s sprinting was in the proverbial doldrums, with the SA Record for 100m having been stuck on 10.06 for more than 20 years, and none of our sprinters making finals on the world stage, let alone medalling.

However, in the last few years the 10-second barrier has been beaten by five SA speedsters, including Akani Simbine, who made the 100m final at the 2016 Olympics and 2017 World Champs, while Wayde van Niekerk has dominated the 400m at Olympics and World Champs, with a World Record as well. We also had Anaso Jobodwana in the 200m final of the 2012 Olympics, and he won bronze at the 2015 World Champs.

Meanwhile a crop of sprinting youngsters, including Clarence, were coming through the ranks, medalling numerous times at World Youth and World Junior Champs and pointing to even bigger things to come in SA men’s sprinting. And while the focus was on Akani in Australia – which he responded to by winning the gold medal in the 100m final, with teammate Henricho Bruintjies claiming the silver – there was also immense pressure on Clarence, especially after his recent performances on SA soil. He went on to finish a very commendable fifth in the 200m final, later being promoted to fourth following the disqualification of the winner for a lane infringement, but that prompted the “Flop” headline, and some people seemed to have forgotten that Clarence only just turned 20, and this was his first major final at senior level. In other words, it was nowhere near being a flop!

YOUTHFUL SUCCESS
In 2016 Clarence won the SA Senior and Junior 200m titles, and finished fourth in the 200m final at the IAAF Under-20 Championships in Bydgoszcz, Poland. His win at the senior SA Champs made him the second-youngest ever National Champion, and one of only three 18-year-olds to win an SA title. That saw him selected for the 2016 Rio Olympics, alongside friend, rival and fellow 18-year-old Gift Leotlela. In Rio, neither was able to progress past the first round of the 200m, but they took home invaluable experience of competing at the highest level. Then in 2017 he won the African Under-20 Champs 200m gold medal, and represented SA at the World Champs in London, but was unfortunately disqualified in the first round for stepping out of his lane.

Fast-forward to 2018 and Clarence has enjoyed a breakthrough season. At the Gauteng North Champs in late February, he clocked 10.10 for 100m, improving his personal best from 10.20 – and if he had done so just four days earlier he would have set a new SA Junior Record, but he turned 20 on 20 February. Afterwards, he said he was ecstatic about his performance, but he still preferred the longer sprint event. “The 200 metres is my favourite distance – I am way faster in it – but I know I am capable of running a sub-10 for 100 metres and sub-20 for 200 if the conditions are right. But I am not going to get obsessed with it. It will happen. I just need to make sure that I keep on doing the small things right.”

Just three weeks later he lived up to those words. At the SA Champs, in front of his home crowd at Tuks, he smashed the SA Record for 200m with a time of 19.69 seconds, eclipsing the 19.84 set by Wayde in 2017 and giving him the tenth-fastest time ever in the world. He was justifiably proud of the achievement: “I’m only 20 years old, and to run 19.69 at my age is something I never dreamt would happen. That is why I almost did a complete victory lap afterwards!”

HOPES OF A NATION
That saw Clarence head to Australia as the fastest man in the world this year, with many in SA expecting him to return with a medal, but a tightening hamstring saw him slow up perceptibly with 50m to go in the semi-final, where he finished second in 20.36 with the overall second-fastest qualifier. Then he clocked 20.58 for his eventual fourth position in the final, but aggravated the hamstring strain, and was thus forced to withdraw from the SA 4x100m relay team that went on to win a scintillating silver medal.

Although disappointed, Clarence still managed to take the positive from his Australian outing. “Unfortunately, the hamstring injury that hindered me in the heats flared up again, and I knew it was going to be a tough challenge even before I settled in the starting blocks. Still it was my first major final, so I am happy to have finished. And now that I have done a 19.69, I think it will obviously put me under pressure. I will have to step-up my game!”

IMAGES: Roger Sedres/ImageSA & Reg Caldecott

The Ethiopian Leprechaun

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Cape Town-based Ethiopian astrophysicist Kamil Suleiman ran the recent London Marathon with a most unusual record in his sights. – BY PJ MOSES

Kamil believes that everything is possible, and that nobody can deny you your place in this world if you do not allow them to. “I saw successful people who looked just like me all around when I was growing up. I never felt inferior to anybody, and I want to give that gift to every child struggling against injustice and oppression in this world.” This bold mission statement led him to the London Marathon in April and an attempt at a Guinness World Record (GWR): He wanted to become the fastest runner in a marathon dressed as an Irish Leprechaun!

The existing GWR for this is 2:59:30, and Kamil’s motivation to chase it was not just because he has a good sense of humour, but because he knew this was a good opportunity for him and his comrades in the Runners for the Freedom of Palestine (RFP) movement to spread awareness of their cause on a major world stage. “I gave it my all and came within 15 seconds of breaking the record, but unfortunately I could not get it done. I did the training and prepared properly, but it was a late morning start and a record warm day for London.”

Kamil finished in 2:59:45, complete with costume and flag, in position 1079 out of 40,273 finishers, which put him in the top 3% of the field, but he was nevertheless just a little disappointed. “I was upset about missing the Guinness World Record by just 15 seconds, but I’m super proud for two reasons. One, the record attempt was only a platform – the main goal was to raise awareness about the plight of the people of Palestine by finishing with the Palestinian flag, and the amount of coverage we got was incredible. Two, this was my first sub-3 in a flat marathon, and there’s no hiding from the continuous work by the same group of muscles. Continually telling myself to keep pushing till the end, despite the exhaustion, was so hard, but I didn’t accept defeat till the finishing line, and I am proud of that.”

The Plan is Born
Growing up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Kamil played soccer and other sports, but running didn’t interest him back then. However, after winning a scholarship to continue his studies in Astrophysics at the University of Cape Town and relocating to South Africa, he slowly became aware of the Cape running culture. It still took him almost a decade of living in Cape Town before he would fall in love with the sport, but eventually he began running for fun in 2012. Then in January 2014 decided to take it more seriously and joined Itheko AC. “I was not a natural, I think, and finished my first marathon in a slow 4:39, but the flame had been lit inside of me to become a better runner.” With the help of his coach, Farouk Meyer, he trained hard and improved massively to clock a PB of 2:56.

The idea for the ‘Leprechaun Run’ came from his friend Safoudien after they checked the Guinness records. “I wanted to go for the fastest marathon time while using a skipping rope, because I loved skipping as a child and still skip when training. In practical terms, however, we decided that it would not be possible for me to skip and take the flag near the end of the race, so I postponed that idea and decided on the Leprechaun idea instead. Then, getting a costume made the way the GWR wanted and getting a lucky race entry through a charity were also obstacles we had to overcome.” Thankfully, the ‘luck of the Irish’ was with the group and everything worked out.

Motivation and Support
On race day, Kamil had a decent first 32km, but from there the heat began getting to him and his legs started to cramp. He says it took all his focus and determination not to slow down. “I knew my friend and RFP colleague Rabia Harris was waiting to give me the flag for the last kilometre, and that thought kept me focussed – I had the opportunity to be the voice of the voiceless, and I could not waste it. I also thought about everybody who got behind our cause, and I didn’t want to let them down. It was not a pressure, it was an energy booster, and I can’t thank everyone enough.”

“I also need to give Rabia special credit here. The race was heavily guarded, with both visible and hidden security personnel, and the cops near my supporters kept moving the rope or stripe tape to prevent the runners from getting close to the spectators. Rabia the rebel saw no choice but to jump over the fence to hand the flag over to me. If she hadn’t done that, I would have had to crawl under the rope, which would have probably triggered the really bad cramp that then thankfully only happened after I finished!”

IMAGES: Courtesy Kamil Suleiman

The Tried and Trusted 2.4

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Those who ‘did time’ in the armed forces may still suffer a nervous reaction upon hearing the words “two point four,” but it’s the stuff ‘men were made of’ for many years, and can still be a useful training guide today. – BY NORRIE WILLIAMSON

The 2.4km distance is traditionally used as a fitness test for all serving personnel in military, police and fire brigade services in many countries. The test was developed for the US Military in 1968 by sport scientist Dr Kenneth Cooper as a simple, practical and easily implemented means of assessing aerobic fitness, and became directly comparable to a VO2 test in the lab.

The test was also used by the SA Defence Forces, as many slightly older male readers will well remember, with regular tests undertaken by platoons and squads, and the minimum result expected was 12 minutes. The true challenge, however, was that this normally had to be completed in full kit, webbing and leather boots. Oh, and just for fun, sometimes the instructors made you run with an assault rifle as well, to hamper a good arm action. That means you needed to run an average pace of five minutes per kilometre with an extra 18kg on board! Little wonder that this test quickly exposed the injured and unfit.

Furthermore, the test is employed in various sports as a means of assessing match officials, such as soccer or rugby referees, who face an annual ‘2.4’ to see if they can keep up with the game. Top officials in these professional sports actually now need to be considerably fitter than years gone by in order to ‘keep an eye on the ball,’ but 12 minutes for 2.4km remains a recognised standard. And this test should also be a stock option for all runners, because it provides as good a guide, if not better, to ability, fitness and training progression as the most expensive VO2 Max assessment in the lab.

GO TEST YOURSELF
After a good warm-up, pump out six laps non-stop on the track, taking the time of each 400m lap and the overall time. The objective is to get your personal fastest possible time, and every second counts, so pacing is important. Start slightly conservatively, hit your core pace from around 600m to 2000m, and then for the last 400m squeeze out every last gram of energy and determination to literally throw yourself over the line. Just remember to hit the stop button!

The faster you are, the better your practical (and effective) VO2, and the faster you can run a 5km, 10km, 15km, half marathon, marathon, Oceans, Comrades and even 100km. It truly is as simple as that! (Note: Beyond 100km there are other facets that come into play, including the ability to overcome sleep depravation.) Also, by knowing your ability in a hard, fast 2.4km, you can determine the required ‘Tempo’ pace when working towards your next goal race.

The great thing about these tests in the service was that it was done in a squad or group. This meant that there was ‘peer pressure’ and a bit of competitiveness involved, which would help with focus and determination. In contrast, running 12 minutes flat-out as a solo effort is a considerably harder task for most runners, and you’re likely to do better running solo over a shorter distance. Thus the mile (1.609km, or four laps of the track) becomes a more valuable assessment for the solo runner – it’s long enough to assess both speed and endurance, but also a reasonable duration to mentally challenge the runner’s determination.

KEEP IT REGULAR
These tests can be done every six to eight weeks, as one of the major benefits of a short distance blast is that it requires only one day easy as preparation and another day of active recovery after. There is minimum impact on your training programme.

When done regularly there is soon a trail of records, which will indicate when a runner is reaching peak fitness, recovering from a race, or even making a return from injury. One of the most useful outcomes is the ability to use the test to predict accurately your potential time for an upcoming race, and from that the pacing strategy to be used to achieve the best outcome.

So while many runners may not have great memories of the old 2.4 regimental test, along with the mile it can be a key weapon in the running arsenal of a competitive runner looking to achieve their best.

About the Author
Norrie has represented Scotland, Great Britain and later his adopted South Africa in ultra-distance running and triathlon. He is an IAAF-accredited coach and course measurer, has authored two books on running, and counts 21 Comrades medals amongst his more than 150 ultra-marathon medals. You can read more from him at www.coachnorrie.co.za.

IMAGE: Fotolia & Courtesy US Army

Running for Sailor

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Many South Africans run races to raise funds for a charity or cause, but most choose a cause in South Africa, whereas Yvonne Malan is running to support a museum in Great Britain dedicated to the Second World War. There’s an interesting story behind her choice. – BY SEAN FALCONER

In June 1940, the world stood on the brink of disaster. Nazi Germany had conquered most of Europe, and Britain and her former colonies, including South Africa, were the only opposition left to Adolf Hitler’s forces. The British Army had just been miraculously rescued from the beaches of Dunkirk in France, and the Battle of Britain was about to commence, with the fighter squadrons of the Royal Air Force tasked with stopping the German Luftwaffe from gaining air superiority over Britain, which would open the door for a German invasion.

Leading one of those squadrons was South African fighter ace Adolph ‘Sailor’ Malan, and by the end of the Battle he was one of the highest-scoring, most decorated and best known RAF aces. He went on to become one of the war’s leading tacticians in air-fighting, with his Ten Rules for Air Fighting being hung up in most fighter squadron’s orderly rooms, and he was hero-worshipped in Britain. Today, the Malan name is still revered in the UK, whereas he is a largely forgotten figure in his own country, but one runner is trying to change that.

FAMILY HERITAGE
A distant relative of Sailor, Yvonne Malan is running three races this year in South Africa with links to his history, in an effort to raise money for the Kent Battle of Britain Museum in the UK, and to commemorate Sailor’s important role in history. “I’ve already done the Peninsula Half Marathon, which finishes in Simonstown, where Sailor joined the Merchant Marine at age 14. That’s why he later picked up his nickname when he joined the RAF. Next was the Safari Half Marathon in Wellington, where he was born, and the third race will be the Cape Town Marathon, because that’s where he led huge rallies for the Torch Commando in the fifties, speaking out against the Apartheid policies of the then government,” says Yvonne.

“I have created an online donation page where people can support my runs in order to raise my target of £500 for the museum, because if Germany had won the Battle of Britain, the consequences would have been catastrophic globally. Even though the Battle is more British history, it is actually global history, and still relevant to all of us today. Many South Africans were involved in the Battle, and the war, and that should be commemorated, so I am glad to see that the movie Dunkirk has also sparked more interest in that period of history again.”

RUNNING ACADEMIC
Born in Somerset West, Yvonne initially studied at Stellenbosch University before heading to Oxford University in 2005, going on complete a doctorate. She now works as an academic and regularly travels internationally for work, but tries to get back to SA and fit in as many races she can. “I started running in 1999 and ran my first Two Oceans and Comrades in 2000. I have spent much of the last 13 years abroad, and it’s hard to keep your running going in the winter months overseas, but when I am here, I try to run races in support of a charity. This year I wanted to do something a bit different, and I think Sailor and his fellow pilots deserve to be remembered.”

She says Sailor is actually better known in the UK, and she has often been asked if there is a connection. “When I met the late Sir Roger Bannister for the first time in Oxford, he actually asked if I am ‘related to that Malan,’ because he grew up during the war years. If you look at all the books on the Battle of Britain and the biographies on Sailor, you see that he was hugely respected as a leader and there was an aura around him. However, he has largely been erased from the history books, because of his involvement with the Torch Commando.”

“It was one of the first non-racial movements in the country, mostly consisting of war veterans, and they basically said we fought fascism in Europe, only to return to SA and find a fascist government in control, and we’re not standing for it. They had huge rallies and became an outspoken threat to the government, especially Sailor, because he was an articulate, revered war hero with Afrikaner heritage, so the movement was undermined and later banned. Sailor was vilified by the Afrikaner press and withdrew from politics, and I think he has largely been forgotten, even erased, because he was inconvenient… one of many whites that stood up against Apartheid back then, and even today that makes him inconvenient to many in the current regime. I hope to change that perception this year.”

You can support Yvonne’s fundraising runs at  https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/yvonnemalan1

IMAGES: Jetline Action Photo & courtesy Imperial War Museum

The Good Squeeze

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Athletes who recover better are more likely to train harder and improve performance, and thus in recent years, various forms of compression treatments to aid in recovery have gained popularity, the most commonly used being compression garments. – BY ERNEST HOBBS

Breaking it down to essential basics, training results in damage to and inflammation of muscles, temporarily reducing their ability to generate force and increasing risk of injury. Compression garments contain a firm elastic component, which compresses body tissues through pressure applied to the skin and muscles. This compression is designed to reduce the space available for swelling to occur, or an oedema to form, as a result of the exercise-induced muscle damage. By limiting the fluid within the area, compression garments limit the cells from experiencing further damage. Additionally, improved lymphatic drainage allows metabolites and damage proteins to be removed at a faster rate, and enhanced blood circulation may allow faster cell regeneration and protein synthesis.

Research has shown that compression garments do assist with recovery after intense exercise, though they do not reduce the exercise-induced muscle damage incurred during exercise. Furthermore, short-term use (up to 2 hours) is unlikely to yield any benefit, whereas medium use (8-24 hours) and long-term use (more than 24 hours) has been found to reduce feelings of fatigue and the time taken to for muscles to generate maximum force. These beneficial effects have been noted to last beyond 72 hours of use, though generally the best results were achieved in the first 24-36 hours.

It should be noted that the potential benefits are proportional to the amount of damage suffered, and while running does cause some muscular damage, resistance and plyometric training is associated with far greater damage, and thus benefit more from the use of compression garments. Additionally, even though compression garments do assist with the recovery process, it may not be the most worthwhile use of time as studies have found that other forms of recovery (massage, cold water immersion, active rest, etc.) may provide superior results. Furthermore, Inconsistencies in the measurement of the pressure applied and the variability of human anatomy makes it difficult to identify and standardise an ideal pressure for recovery.

5 take home points

  • Recovery needed after training is highly specific to the intensity, duration and mode of exercise.
  • Compression garments seem to benefit both well-trained and novice athletes similarly.
  • The temporary decrease in ability following exercise is complex, and as such it is unlikely that one recovery mechanism will address all degenerative processes.
  • Compression garments might not be the ultimate ‘one-stop’ solution for recovery from exercise, but can be an effective and convenient addition to any recovery plan.
  • As with exercise, it is always wise to consult your physician before using compression garments, as there are certain contraindications which may put some athletes at risk.


About the Author
Ernest is a biomechanical, video, and running gait analyst at the High Performance Centre (HPC) of the University of Pretoria.

IMAGE: Getty Images

Liberty 250 Hits the Dolphin Coast!

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Exciting New Cycle Challenge in KZN!

The Liberty 250, a new event on the cycling calendar, offers TWO new three-day stage races to suit every cycling enthusiast's taste. For the roadies there will be three days of scintialting racing on tar, and for the mountain bikers three days of adventure await! In both races there will be prizes for the fastest male, female and mixed teams. Solo riders may take part, but will not be eligible for prizes.

The brainchild of Barry Holland, director of the Race Organisation Company (ROC), these races are going to offer riders something new. “The cycling calendar may already be full, but we believe there is room for something fresh and exciting, and the Liberty 250 is just that, something that every cyclist can take on while riding some of the best routes in the country! It is also worth noting that this is the first major cycling event on the North Coast of Kwazulu Natal.” says Barry.

Happening from the 10th to the 12th of August 2018, the two three-day stage races are just waiting for you to do one thing, enter, so click on the link below and enter today!
 

Enter Now
 


Liberty 250 Road Race
All stages start and finish at Sugar Rush Park, making it easy for the riders, as no shuttles will be needed to get back to the start each day. Stage one features an undulating 124km route that will challenge those fresh legs as teams of four and two embark on their three-day journey. The second day will see a shorter 87km with some sharp, steep climbs to make sure riders are challenged, but also rewarded with beautiful views at the top of each climb! The last day sees an easy 39km to spin out the legs, making sure that the first day back in the office won't be too bad!

While riders who will race in teams of four, only the top three riders' times will count towards results, so team tactics will be key. The first two days there will include three King of the Mountain Hot Spots – the first rider to reach the pinnacle will claim the prize. And to keep things exciting on day three, there will be a Sprint Hot Spot around the 24km mark, so save a little in the legs to charge for the honour of fastest rider!

Liberty 150 MTB Race
Also beginning and finishing at Sugar Rush Park, teams of two riders will be treated to some brand new single track as well as some firm favourite sections of the Holla Trails. The first day's route is 60km of sublime riding, with a fun-filled 50km to follow on day two that will have the riders pumping down the trails at speed and flying up the hills like they aren't even there! The third stage will see a lighter 32km ride – just enough to challenge the riders after the first two days of racing, but still finishing with big smiles on their faces!

But how much does it cost?
We know that race entry fees have sky-rocketed and budgets are even tighter after the fuel price increase, so the good news is that for both the road and MTB races, you will only pay an entry fee of R1500 per rider per race! That's just R500 a day to ride some of the best routes in the country! Riders will also receive a top quality race top, an impressive goodie bag, a meal and drink each day, as well as well-stocked water points and mechanical back-up should anything go wrong. And of course, to reward you for all your hard effort on the bike, a medal for every finisher!

Enter Now

 

Warrior Announces Its First Brand Ambassador

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GAUTENG, PRETORIA – WARRIOR OCR events burst onto the scene in 2013, immediately spearheading the meteoric rise of obstacle course racing (OCR) in South Africa. Today, Toyota Warrior, powered by Reebok, remains at the forefront of OCR South Africa with world-class obstacles, innovative courses and over 4000 athletes competing, including many of the country’s top OCR competitors, who push their mental and physical limits with the aim to reach the pinnacle in their sport, to gain respect and recognition, to take them onto the world stage.

In support of the continued growth of the South African OCR community, Advendurance and Toyota Warrior have created an athlete programme, providing a platform for athletes to grow and develop to their full potential.

Thomas van Tonder is arguably one of South Africa’s top OCR athletes and a household name in the South African and International OCR community, so it is no surprise that Toyota Warrior have selected him as their first Warrior Brand Ambassador.

Thomas started racing OCR in 2014. He took up training with Warrior Fit Coaching on an OCR specific programme, which led him to straight victories back to back. It was clear that OCR was his sport and he has never looked back.

Max Cluer, founder/manager of Jeep Team South Africa, spotted van Tonder’s talent early on and invited him to join the Jeep Team. Van Tonder became teammates with the likes of paddling legend, ten-times World Marathon Champion, Hank McGregor, trail running champion, Christiaan Greyling, and World Multisport Champion, Robyn Owen.

Fast forward to 2018, and van Tonder’s pedigree is clear to see. Competing at the highest level in OCR for four years, his scoresheet is impressive and consistent.

Amongst many other wins, van Tonder has won 16 Warrior Black Ops Elite titles, placed second in 18 races and one third place. He won the National Championship and Series Championship in 2016 and was runner up in 2017. Van Tonder has also won all 14 of the Beast OCR elite titles since The Beast’s inception.

Internationally, Thomas has also competed in four OCR World Championships, placing Top 10 in three of them and a Top 20 finish in 2016.

Thomas will make an outstanding WARRIOR Ambassador, embodying the values of excellence, friendship and respect, and displaying commitment to giving back to the sport he loves, by setting a good example for the next generation.

Says Fritz Pienaar, co-owner of the WARRIOR Series, “Thomas is an important compass to all new athletes on the OCR scene. He is a true professional who is well-respected both locally and internationally. We want to build meaningful relationships that benefit both the athletes and the Warrior Race.”

Van Tonder will be the first Warrior Athlete in the programme with his eyes set on the first South African OCR Championship happening at Blythedale Coastal Estate on the KZN North Coast on the 14th and 15th July 2018, and future OCR World Championships.

###
________________________________________
For more information or to enter, visit www.warrior.co.za.
See this release online – https://warrior.co.za/warrior-announces-first-brand-ambassador/
Link to Thomas van Tonder’s sport bio: https://warrior.co.za/warrior-ambassador/
________________________________________
Written and distributed by Hot Salsa Media on behalf of Advendurance.
Images and Enquiries to [email protected]
________________________________________
Editors Notes
Toyota Warrior Race 2018 Dates:

Warrior 5 14 – 15 July Blythedale, KwaZulu-Natal (SA OCR Championship)
Warrior 6 11 August Nelspruit, Mpumalanga
Warrior 7 20 – 21 October Meerendal Wine Estate, Cape Town, Western Cape
Warrior 8 24 – 25 November Tierpoort Adventure Farm, Pretoria, Gauteng

Toyota WARRIOR, powered by Reebok, is back with mud and obstacles built to sustain and delight the thousands of athletes, large and small, tall and short, thin and large that are ready to challenge themselves having fun building better humans.

The event calls adventure seekers from all walks of life – whether a weekend WARRIOR or an elite athlete hoping to snatch up the series title. With a Rookie, Commando, and Black Ops category on offer, WARRIOR has something for everyone.

For the first time in the popular series there will be an escape route for those who don’t find the idea of mud particularly appealing. Instead of diving into the infamous Mud Monster, participants will have the option of taking a penalty loop that will take them the same amount of time to complete. The ‘mudless’ option will not be made available to any Elite athletes, however.

Adventure seekers looking for some extra high-speed excitement have the option of entering the popular Reebok Sprint Race.

A specifically designed children’s obstacle course will be available for little adventurers, as well as a WARRIOR Kids Zone under the supervision of child-minders.

There are some exciting things in store at the 2018 TOYOTA WARRIOR SERIES, powered by Reebok:
• You can choose your own batch start times again, so enter soon to choose the batch you prefer.
• The theme for 2018 is M?ori Warrior, so expect to see a lot of tattoos and funky designs
• In 2018 the Mud Monster will not be compulsory, non-Elites can do a penalty loop and skip the mud
• Sprint Race: we have changed the Sprint Race format to make it more exciting and involve more age categories.
• Two one-day action packed events added in Bloemfontein and Nelspruit
• Warrior is going International! On 24 March 2018 we will be hosting a Toyota Warrior event in Windhoek, Namibia. Entries opening soon!

Christiaan Greyling Sets the Pace at The Cathedral Peak Challenge

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“The mountains are calling, and I must go.”
– John Muir

KWAZULU-NATAL, DRAKENSBERG – All good stories have an adventure at their core. Conceptualised by the owner of the Cathedral Peak Hotel, William Van Der Riet, the Cathedral Peak Challenge is not a call to beat or overcome the mountain; it is an invitation to reconnect with the wilderness in its purest form. Go on an adventure into the great outdoors. Challenge yourself on the trail to the top of Cathedral Peak and back down again.

Over a distance of 20km with a total ascent of 1531m to summit highest free- standing peak in the Drakensberg, at an altitude of 3005m, the Cathedral Peak Challenge requires you to be at your best and your bravest, every step of the way.

The 8th of June 2018 marked the first official run for the money – those quickest to the top and back have a chance to share in cash prizes totalling R100 000.

All 38 of the entrants made it to the start line and completed the daunting challenge to try and bag a healthy R25 000 for the fastest male, female and mixed team of 2.
Some of the big names to set their mark on the Challenge included top trail runners Mlungisi Mazibuko, Perfect Dlamini, Jeannie Dreyer, and Christiaan Greyling and Landie Greyling; top OCR athletes Thomas van Tonder, Dominique D’Olivera, Sabrina Daolio and JP Mare; top triathletes Matthew Holden, Michael Ferreira, Michael Lord and Hayden Corke; as well as Mrs South Africa 2018, Nicole Capper, seven-time Dusi winner and founder of the Change a Life Academy, Martin Dreyer, and Angela Yeung from Trek for Mandela 2018.

Make no mistake; this challenge is not for your average Joe. If you think it will be a Sunday afternoon stroll in the park, think again. A high degree of physical and mental fitness is required if you decide to #ChallengeYourself.

Christiaan Greyling had his work cut out with a late surge from Mlungisi Mazibuko who made a final sprint to the line, which Greyling won in a time of 2 hours 29 minutes and 52 seconds, only 8 seconds ahead of Mazibuko, setting a new course record, which was held by Megan Mackenzie with a time of 2 hours and 53 minutes.

In the ladies’ race, it was one-way traffic for trail runner Jeannie Dreyer, who completed the challenge in a time of 3 hours and 19 minutes, 26 minutes shy of Megan Mackenzie course benchmark set on 10 May during the route launch.

Elite Obstacle Course Racer, Sabrina Daolio came in second, 47 minutes behind Dreyer. The third lady home was Landie Greyling in a time of 4 hours and 8 minutes.

Top of the men’s leaderboard so far, Christiaan Greyling, comments, “What a beautiful experience. It’s something I would recommend to everyone and anyone. Everyone should challenge themselves on this race. It’s hard to explain all the emotions you experience on this mountain. It brings you closer to nature, draws out raw human emotion as you push your limits, but you will never regret it.”

The next date to keep in mind will be 18 July 2018, when a bonus race has been made available in celebration of Mandela Day, after which the series resumes on 28 July, 25 August and 22 September in one of South Africa’s most beautiful regions. These dates are supported race days to the summit, while the Mini Challenge, on unsupported days, follows the course to the base camp of the peak and can be completed at any time before the final day of The Challenge.

Singles can enter for only R250 and teams may enter at R400 per team. Have the chance to beat the best of the best and claim the R25 000 cash prize at the end of the series, for the fastest mixed team, male or female. Participants are welcome to enter again and again and challenge themselves to better their times, until The Challenge’s final day on 30 September – #ChallengeYourself.

While one does not have to stay at the Cathedral Peak Hotel to race, participants that do will receive a 25% discount for the duration of their stay while running the challenge, allowing those brave souls to not only challenge their limits but to renew their souls at this outstanding resort with all its amazing facilities.

Do you have what it takes to #ChallengeYourself?

For more information, and to register, go to www.cathedralpeak.co.za/challenge/
Follow the Cathedral Peak Hotel on:
FACEBOOK – @CathedralPeakHotel
TWITTER – @cathedralpeakhotel
——ENDS——

Christiaan Greyling Sets the Pace at The Cathedral Peak Challenge

Modern AthleteEvent Update!Leave a Comment on Christiaan Greyling Sets the Pace at The Cathedral Peak Challenge

“The mountains are calling, and I must go.”
– John Muir

All good stories have an adventure at their core. Conceptualised by the owner of the Cathedral Peak Hotel, William Van Der Riet, the Cathedral Peak Challenge is not a call to beat or overcome the mountain; it is an invitation to reconnect with the wilderness in its purest form. Go on an adventure into the great outdoors. Challenge yourself on the trail to the top of Cathedral Peak and back down again.

Over a distance of 20km with a total ascent of 1531m to summit highest free-standing peak in the Drakensberg, at an altitude of 3005m, the Cathedral Peak Challenge requires you to be at your best and your bravest, every step of the way.

The 8th of June 2018 marked the first official run for the money – those quickest to the top and back have a chance to share in cash prizes totalling R100 000. All 38 of the entrants made it to the start line and completed the daunting challenge to try and bag a healthy R25 000 for the fastest male, female and mixed team of 2.


Some of the big names to set their mark on the Challenge included top trail runners Mlungisi Mazibuko, Perfect Dlamini, Jeannie Dreyer, and Christiaan Greyling and Landie Greyling; top OCR athletes Thomas van Tonder, Dominique D'Olivera, Sabrina Daolio and JP Mare; top triathletes Matthew Holden, Michael Ferreira, Michael Lord and Hayden Corke; as well as Mrs South Africa 2018, Nicole Capper, seven-time Dusi winner and founder of the Change a Life Academy, Martin Dreyer, and Angela Yeung from Trek for Mandela 2018.

Make no mistake; this challenge is not for your average Joe. If you think it will be a Sunday afternoon stroll in the park, think again. A high degree of physical and mental fitness is required if you decide to #ChallengeYourself.

Christiaan Greyling had his work cut out with a late surge from Mlungisi Mazibuko who made a final sprint to the line, which Greyling won in a time of 2 hours 29 minutes and 52 seconds, only 8 seconds ahead of Mazibuko, setting a new course record, which was held by Megan Mackenzie with a time of 2 hours and 53 minutes.

In the ladies’ race, it was one-way traffic for trail runner Jeannie Dreyer, who completed the challenge in a time of 3 hours and 19 minutes, 26 minutes shy of Megan Mackenzie course benchmark set on 10 May during the route launch.

Elite Obstacle Course Racer, Sabrina Daolio came in second, 47 minutes behind Dreyer. The third lady home was Landie Greyling in a time of 4 hours and 8 minutes.

Top of the men’s leaderboard so far, Christiaan Greyling, comments, “What a beautiful experience. It’s something I would recommend to everyone and anyone. Everyone should challenge themselves on this race. It’s hard to explain all the emotions you experience on this mountain. It brings you closer to nature, draws out raw human emotion as you push your limits, but you will never regret it.”

The next date to keep in mind will be 18 July 2018, when a bonus race has been made available in celebration of Mandela Day, after which the series resumes on 28 July, 25 August and 22 September in one of South Africa’s most beautiful regions. These dates are supported race days to the summit, while the Mini Challenge, on unsupported days, follows the course to the base camp of the peak and can be completed at anytime before the final day of The Challenge.

Singles can enter for only R250 and teams may enter at R400 per team. Have the chance to beat the best of the best and claim the R25 000 cash prize at the end of the series, for the fastest mixed team, male or female. Participants are welcome to enter again and again and challenge themselves to better their times, until The Challenge’s final day on 30 September – #ChallengeYourself.

While one does not have to stay at the Cathedral Peak Hotel to race, participants that do will receive a 25% discount for the duration of their stay while running the challenge, allowing those brave souls to not only challenge their limits but to renew their souls at this outstanding resort with all its amazing facilities.

Do you have what it takes to #ChallengeYourself?


LeaderBoard Standings

For more information and to register for this event, visit www.cathedralpeak.co.za/challenge/
Follow the Cathedral Peak Hotel on:
Facebook 
Twitter: @CathedralPeakH
Instagram: @cathedralpeakhotel

Legal Eagle

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Razaan Kamaldien has shown amazing juggling skills as she manages the busy life of a top Western Province junior runner and a University of Cape Town law student, and is now really starting to fly in her running. – BY PJ MOSES

In between a heavy academic workload, training for the UCT hockey team and hours of training as a runner, young Capetonian Razaan Kamaldien excels at all she does. “I always want to be as good as I can be at everything I try, and be the best version of me in all I do!” she says. And she has certainly excelled at running, since deciding to take it seriously four years ago, having become a regular podium finisher at road races all over the Cape. Recently, she raised the bar for herself still higher by winning the junior title at the 2018 Old Mutual Two Oceans Half Marathon, heading a very strong field of junior girls from across the country.

According to Razaan, the support and encouragement of her Dad, who is also a runner, has given her the wings to fly. “My parents have been very supportive in all that I do, but especially my Dad, because he runs too, and he knows how much work it takes. When he introduced me to running it was only for fun and keeping fit, but when I realised that I may have some potential for being good at it, he was willing to drive me around to races, even when he wasn’t running.”

She also credits a move to the Carbineers WP Athletic Club as a catalyst in her becoming mentally and physically stronger. “My coach Candyce Hall has been great with the advice and support she has given me, including teaching me about being patient when I have setbacks, or how to be a leader among the junior girls that I compete with. Still, I wasn’t expecting to do as well as I did at Two Oceans, because I was sick with the flu just two weeks before the race. I thought that I wouldn’t have anything in my legs, but it all worked out and I surprised myself with finishing strongly and taking the win in a time of 1:40!”

BALANCED APPROACH
Even though her life is busy, Razaan makes the time to spend with family and friends. “Find time for yourself and do not allow a busy life to overwhelm you. One of my favourite quotes says, ‘If it’s important, you’ll find a way; if it’s not, you’ll find an excuse.’ To me, prioritising my life is second nature. I set a schedule for myself and stick to it. I think proper time management is an important key to success.”

The youngest of four kids, Razaan’s family is what keeps her grounded and focused on her goals when a lot of other young people are caught up in the distractions the world has to offer. “I think especially girls need to find out what makes them happy and give their dreams 100 percent effort. Running made me a better person because it gave me a place to be me, but also to be surrounded by a new family in my club and the Cape Town running community. I don’t judge other people and the way they live their lives, but I prefer spending my time with family, training, studying or going to the movies. It keeps me on the right track.”

Another favourite pastime when she needs a break from running and studying sees Razaan take out her fishing rod and head to the nearest jetty with her Dad. “I love fishing. People often laugh when I tell them this, but it is a normal part of my life, and I don’t even mind the smell of fish on me,” she giggles. “Okay maybe I don’t love smelling like fish, but it doesn’t bother me much. I love just being close to the ocean – and I don’t eat what I catch, but release it back into the water.”

RUNNING GOALS
As she moves up to the senior level, Razaan is looking forward to the challenges ahead. “I’ll be running against my heroes, women who have blazed a trail for me and other young female runners. I hope their knowledge rubs off on me, as we compete and run together.” For now, her racing preference is the half marathon, but she says she can’t wait to be old enough to take on marathons and then ultra-distances. “I enjoy the longer distances, but I know that I still need to do the shorter ones to get faster. My goal is to run a sub-40 10km in the next five years, and by the time I hit my mid-20s, and with my coach’s blessing, I can run marathons. I will be more than ready.”

IMAGES: Running Ninja Photography, Moegsien Ebrahim & courtesy Nicki Hill