Category: Features

It’s been a breakthrough year for Annie Bothma. The
17-year-old from Stellenbosch has run the fastest times in 2013 by a junior for
10km (36:47) and 15km (56:41), and she was selected by Western Province to run
at the SA Cross Country Champs in February, where she finished third, despite a
twisted ankle, and was selected to go to Poland for the World Champs in March.
Then in April she claimed the SA Junior 5000m title on the track, despite
running barefoot and severely burning her feet, and in May she added the junior
title at the SA 10km Champs. At the time of writing, she was also on course to
retain her junior title in the Spar Women’s Series Grand Prix.

And all this despite suffering from debilitating bouts
of illness. “It all started when I almost died of scarlet fever when I was six.
Since then I have struggled with my health, especially since grade five, losing
a lot of weight and spending more than a year in hospital if you put it
together. I started running in grade seven to escape the problems, and the more
I ran, the more I wanted to run – and then I started to become good at it. I fell
ill again at the World Champs and didn’t do that well, but I believe that made
me mentally stronger, which allowed me to come back and win the two SA titles.”

Annie lives with her parents and two brothers and is
currently in grade 11 at Bloemhof High School. Her other passion is art, and
she runs her own small business selling textiles and craft products to local
businesses. She hasn’t decided yet what she wants to do after school, but says,
“If I could, I would just run. I’m planning on taking a gap year after matric
to see what I can do with my running, and then taking it from there. I want to
try qualify for the Olympic 10,000m in Rio 2016, or else I am going to work for
the marathon later, because the further I go, the stronger and faster I get!”

Clandestine meetings, allegations of financial
mismanagement, board members being suspended, to-and-fro court battles… that
has been the norm at ASA in 2013. At one stage a large faction of the Board,
led by Hendrik Ramaala, tried to oust President James Evans, resulting in them
being suspended, which prompted the South
African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) to once again suspend the entire
ASA Board and take over the running of the sport by appointing interim
administrator Zola Majavu. However, the International Association of Athletics
Federations (IAAF) then got involved, telling SASCOC to hand the sport back
over to ASA, or face ASA’s suspension from international athletics – and thus
the exclusion of SA athletes from all competition outside of SA.

Sadly,
SASCOC reacted by suspending ASA’s membership and announcing that our athletes
will not be selected for Olympic, Commonwealth or other World Games teams until
further notice. (ASA can, however, still send teams to World Champs and African
Champs, and athletes can continue to participate overseas as individuals). The
Olympic body also said it would withhold financial support for athletes in the
Operation Excellence (OPEX) Programme, but subsequently withdrew that decision.
While the impasse between ASA and SASCOC has yet to be solved, James says that
bridges have been mended within ASA and the way forward is being discussed and
planned.

Modern Athlete (MA): What is the status of ASA?

James Evans (JE): ASA is still the
national federation for athletics in South Africa and recognised by the
IAAF as such. The office and the Board are recovering from the mayhem earlier
this year. It will take time, but Hendrick and I are working with the staff in
the office to get everything in place going forward. Officially we have still
not been notified by SASCOC that we have been suspended or why. There have only
been media reports. We have asked SASCOC for clarification, but they have not
replied.

MA: What is the IAAF’s position?

JE: They have made it clear that they will not permit
interference with their national federations. While they regard South Africa as
one of the top athletics nations, we are but one of 212 and they cannot make a
special dispensation for our country. If, in any way, the laws of our country
permit interference and anyone acts in that way, they will have no choice but
to banish us into the wilderness as we were in prior to 1992. That is the last
thing that any athletics person should want.

MA: So should our athletes be setting their sights on qualification for
the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games?

JE: Since the Commonwealth Games team is out of our
control, it is difficult to answer. However, 2014 is the African Senior
Championships, which are just after the Commonwealth Games, so athletes will need
to be in shape in any event.

MA: What is the current financial position of ASA, are there potential
sponsors on the horizon, and what does the deal between ASA and the SABC entail?

JE: The broadcast rights contract with the SABC is
confidential, but in broad strokes, they bought the rights to televise all
athletics events. That fee covers the costs of our teams and running the
federation. The SABC also has certain obligations to televise certain events,
but because of the disruptions this year, the contract was not fully carried
out.

MA: With track & field struggling, will provinces, clubs or
professional events companies be allowed to organise top level (permit) track
meets in order to build the sport up again?

JE: For the past two years we have been attempting to get
clubs, provinces and organisers to put on one-day meetings, as it is done
everywhere else in the world. Only Athletics Central North West and North West University took up the challenge in
2013. We have asked for 2014 events, and have one additional meeting in Cape Town, but they are
the only ones. This is disappointing. For years people complained that they
weren’t allowed to organise permit meetings. Now that we want them to, they are
nowhere to be seen.

MA: Given the messy cancellation of the Soweto
Marathon, how do we ensure less cancellations
of events, and smooth organisation of those that stay on the calendar?

JE: Soweto Marathon was a
disappointment because Central Gauteng Athletics and the clubs in Soweto demanded that they
be given the race to organise, then they cancelled it! We had a sponsor
approach us and I know that the City of Joburg
always supports the event, so we can only surmise that there were other
reasons. We need to change the system in SA, where events get added and cancelled
at a moment’s notice. It is not good for the sport, and we need to make sure
that when people say they want to organise an event, they have the financial
and organisational capacity to do so.

MA: I believe existing road races throughout the country are now being
invited to host SA Championship races in conjunction with their event, instead
of ASA organising stand-alone events?

JE: Yes, that will apply to road, trail and mountain
races. (Incidentally, the IAAF is looking towards the same solution for the
World Half Marathon Championships.) ASA’s job is not to micro-manage the sport,
but to provide the framework for the sport. That is not well-understood in SA,
where people expect the national federation to finance and organise everything.
Nowhere else in the world does it work like that.

MA: You have been criticised for your leadership style and decisions,
not to mention accusations of financial mismanagement. This must be affecting
your ability to get on with the job…

JE: I am glad you say allegations, because eight months
later I am still waiting for any evidence to back the allegations. I think by
now it is safe to say that there is none. I am just disappointed that people
are quick to make and believe allegations, but are far less interested in whether
they are true or not. Also, the media are going to have to look at themselves
long and hard. The Press Code is clear about the need to verify sources and
thereafter to get comment before stories are run. However, most journalists
merely repeat allegations without worrying about the truth or the harm they do.
The fact that they didn’t question why, at any stage, or ask for proof of
allegations, is a damning indictment of the media in general.

MA: So what is the road forward?

JE: I have repeatedly said that we need to relook and
modernise our sport. Much of the present structure and mindset is based on the
1980s and 90s, but the sport has moved on internationally. Our constitutional
framework is clumsy and out of date. In fact, so out of date that the Companies
Act forced a number of automatic amendments in May, which we should have done
ourselves. We also have to amend our constitution to bring it in line with the
IAAF Constitution, and the National Sports Plan and resolutions taken at the
National Sports Indaba. This has to happen before the end of the year, or we
risk losing government funding.

MA: What are the most likely changes?

JE: There needs to be a realignment between the
commercial management of the sport and the pure sport-related decision-making
process. Athletics has to become a commercially viable sport and we cannot rely
on handouts anymore. For that to happen, commercially experienced people need
to guide that part of the federation. Also, we cannot, in terms of the National
Sports Plan, continue with the current demarcations of our members. We have unified
political provinces, but within Gauteng and
the Western Cape
we have three ASA provincial members each. We need to follow the District and
Provincial boundaries, similar to what football has done, and that may mean
standing on the toes of some provincial empires, but if we want to optimise our
funding sources, then it is no longer open for debate.

MA: So is there light at the end of the tunnel?

JE: Yes. With the IAAF supporting us and most of the
athletics people working together again, Hendrick and I are confident that we
can rebuild ASA to where it should be, both nationally and internationally.

In 2010, my year started of with a bang, winning
the Friendly City Marathon in PE in January and putting in a good show at the
South African Triathlon Champs in Germiston. Then one evening, while out
running down Milner Street, Grahamastown, I stood on a stone, fell and suffered
a hairline fracture to my ankle. And this happened a week before the SA
Duathlon Champs. I was angry and devastated, and to make things worse, I got
retrenched from my job in between all the happenings!

So I was on crutches for six weeks, but I
remained positive throughout this very frustrating period. Then two weeks
before coming out of my cast, I heard that I had been selected to represent my
country at the World Triathlon Champs in Budapest, Hungary. The inevitable questions
followed… How would I raise R27,000 to enable me to travel, and would I be
able to get fit enough in time to compete? But I was determined, and when my hubby,
Steve and I discussed the situation, we agreed, “why not, if not!”

GIVING IT A GO

Fortunately, my injury healed nicely and I had
exactly eight weeks to get fit and raise R27 000. The first two weeks of rehab
were very intense and I had physio two hours each day. It was very painful, and
teaching myself to walk again and getting my muscle strength back required a
lot of courage and patience. My first swimming session started the day after I
came out of my cast, and Steve still took me to the pool on my crutches – I managed
to swim 750m, only being able to kick with one leg. My first few cycling sessions
were done on my indoor trainer until I was capable of using my legs on my TT
bike.

But still no running… I only started running
four weeks before leaving for Worlds! My first run was 1.6km, which took me
over 25 minutes to complete! I was basically teaching myself to run again after
12 weeks of no running, and I can say with pride that one week before leaving
for Worlds, I did a 4km time trial in 16:24. In between, I was still trying to
raise the funding I needed, by baking muffins, selling bacon and egg rolls, selling
raffle tickets, and organising a fun run. I also had more than 50 sponsors
donating towards my trip – the Grahamstown community really came together to
send their athlete overseas!

BACK UP TO SPEED

After eight weeks of blood sweat and tears, I
was able to compete, despite so many people telling me I would never make it. I
raced in the 30 to 34 age group, competing against 68 other entrants, and in both
the swim and the cycle I was heating up the pace. Then I hit the run, and
despite not being at my strongest, I still managed to overtake a few athletes.
By the time I finished, I was buggered, but ecstatic to find I had set a new PB
for the standard triathlon by over 13 minutes! Through the willpower of my mind
and the Grace of God, I learnt that all things are possible.

It may come as a surprise to you to discover that one
medium-sized boiled potato with the skin contains about 45% of the daily recommended
value of vitamin C, and as much or more potassium than bananas, spinach or
broccoli. It also accounts for 10% of the daily value of vitamin B6 and trace
amounts of thiamin, riboflavin, folate, magnesium, phosphorous, iron and zinc.

Regrettably, however, we tend to consume potatoes as
oily fries, or potato chips, and baked or boiled potatoes are generally dressed
in fats like cheese sauces, butter or sour cream. To get
the most out of the power of this delicious veggie, it’s important to get rid
of the frills. Instead, we can focus on the three types of potatoes us South
Africans are used to and what athletes need to keep note of if they’re fueling
for a long run or ride.

KEEPS YOU GOING

We are all familiar with the white (or yellow)
potatoes, sweet potatoes and new (baby) potatoes. All of these varieties
contain roughly the same amount of vitamins and minerals per standard portion.
Potatoes mostly differ from one another in their starch content and type, which
affects not only how fast they’re digested, but how they act when cooked.

?        
Boiling usually
results in a lower glycaemic index (GI), since starch can bind with water. The
dry heat of baking, on the other hand, lowers moisture and concentrates the
sugar in the potato. Keeping the skin on will also contribute to a lower GI as
the fibre in the skin helps to decrease the rate at which the sugar is absorbed
into the blood after digestion.

?        
White potatoes,
whether you have them mashed, baked, as fries or potato chips, have a high GI,
which means that their carbohydrates are quickly turned into sugar, which
elevates your blood sugar levels quickly after they have been consumed.

?        
Also known as baby or
creamer potatoes, new potatoes are any potatoes which are gathered young, just
before their sugars are completely transformed into starch. It is due to this
that they have an intermediate GI.

?        
Rich in vitamin A and
beta-carotene, the sweet potato offers complex carbohydrates (due to their
higher fibre content) along with antioxidant nutrients. Boiled sweet potatoes
also have a low GI.

REFUEL, REPLENISH

There are no two runners on the face of the earth who
are exactly alike, so it is important to keep in mind that what works for one
runner may not work for everyone. It is important to fuel every 45 to 60
minutes during a long ride or run of 90 minutes or more, with around 30g to 60g
(three to four new potatoes) of carbohydrate per hour. Just remember to always
test new fuelling snacks during trial runs or rides.

Out of the potatoes mentioned above, the new potatoes
will do the best refuelling job, as they have an intermediate GI and are easier
to consume and digest – due to their lower fibre content – during a long ride
or run. The intermediate GI will not only provide you with a quick surge of
energy, but will assure that you have sustained energy levels for longer. By
adding a little salt to the baby potatoes, it can become a lovely savoury treat
during a long ride and can also help to replace sodium lost through sweat. New
potatoes can also be consumed as your starch after the race to help with refuelling
of your carbohydrate stores.

Dijon mustard potato salad

Try this simple recipe to have with your lean protein
and fresh vegetables.

Serves 4

Prep time: 10min

Cooking time: 15min

Ingredients:

12-16 new potatoes (scrubbed) and halved

1 tbsp. white wine vinegar

1-2 tbsp. Dijon mustard

Coarse salt and ground pepper (according to taste)

2 tbsp. olive oil

? cup chopped fresh flat leaf parsley

Method:

?        
Place the new
potatoes in a pot of lightly salted boiling water (1/4 to ? tsp. salt). Cover
and simmer for 15 minutes or until tender, then drain.

?        
In a large bowl,
combine the white wine vinegar and Dijon mustard, season with salt and pepper.

?        
Add the hot cooked
potatoes and toss all the ingredients together.

?        
Let cool, tossing
occasionally.

?        
Add the oil and
parsley to the cooled potato mixture. Season with salt and pepper, and toss.

Nuts and seeds are plant-based proteins that contain fibre and a combination of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. They are also rich in plant sterols and heart-healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Some of them contain omega 3 fatty acids and can help to improve the balance of cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. However, nuts and seeds are also calorie-dense, so to get their health benefits without breaking the calorie bank, its best to substitute them for other foods in your diet, particularly those high in saturated fat. This can be achieved with one small handful a day.

HEALTHIEST NUTS

• Almonds have as much calcium as milk, and contain magnesium, vitamin E, selenium and lots of fibre. They can lower cholesterol and help prevent cancer.
• Walnuts are extremely good for your heart and brain, and contain ellagic acid, a cancer-fighting antioxidant. They are also a good source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), the plant-based form of omega-3.
• Pecans are rich in antioxidants and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Brazil nuts not only contain poly- and monounsaturated fats, but also contain more than 100 percent of your daily recommended value for the antioxidant selenium.
• Pine nuts have vitamins A, B, D and E, and contain 70% of your body’s daily required amino acids.
• Cashews are rich in minerals like copper, magnesium, zinc, iron and biotin. They are actually a low-fat nut, and like olive oil, have a high concentration of oleic acid, which is good for your heart. (Note: Cashews are not recommended for cancer patients due to potential levels of fungus.)

HEALTHIEST SEEDS

• Flaxseeds are the best source of omega-3s and the phytochemical Lignan, a super antioxidant that helps fight cancer. They also contain a lot of fibre and can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
• Sunflower seeds also help prevent heart disease and cancer with phytochemicals, folate, vitamin E, selenium and copper.
• Chia seeds are incredibly healthy, rich in omega-3 oils, protein, antioxidants, calcium and fibre.
• Pumpkin seeds are great for your immune system with lots of antioxidants (carotenoids), omega-3 fatty acids and zinc.
• Sesame seeds are a good source of calcium, magnesium, zinc, fibre, iron, B1 and phosphorus. They can lower blood pressure and protect against liver damage, and have also been linked to prevention of many diseases like arthritis, asthma, migraine headaches, menopause and osteoporosis.

GET YOUR DAILY FIX
To incorporate them in your daily diet, you can simply grab a handful of raw, unsalted nuts or seeds for an extremely satisfying and healthy snack, or make your own small bags of trail mix for a quick pick-me-up any time of the day. (If you can’t eat nuts and seeds without salt, buy them raw, roast them and sprinkle on a pinch of sea salt.) Other great ways to eat them include:

• Add nuts or seeds, especially chopped almonds and ground flaxseeds, to your salads, hot or cold cereals, yoghurt, smoothies or muffins. Remember that flaxseed has to be ground to receive its full benefits.
• Grind nuts up super fine to take the place of flour or breadcrumbs in recipes, or incorporate with breadcrumbs.
• Toast unsalted nuts like walnuts or pine nuts in a hot skillet and add to pasta, stir-fries, rice or vegetable dishes.
• Nut and seed butters are always so delicious, but stick to no more than one teaspoon a day. Try cooking with macadamia, peanut, sesame or grape seed oil – it’s best not to cook with flaxseed, hemp or walnut oil, they are much better for salad dressings.

Storage tip: The healthy fats in nuts and seeds can oxidise, destroying their nutritional value and their taste, so buy them in small quantities and store in a cool, dry place. You can also store any shelled nuts or seeds in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freezer.

My Ironman 70.3 journey started on race day in 2012. I got through the swim and halfway through the cycle when I had to stop due to stomach cramps and dehydration. The only good thing was that on the day I got to see my husband Johan cross the finishing line. Getting over the disappointment of not finishing was tough and I often thought I wasn’t going to go back in 2013, but in the end, this year I went back to complete what I’d started in 2012.

RACE WEEKEND
The weekend of 70.3 had arrived. Johan and I landed in East London on Friday morning, in time for us to get our first sea swim in. I was a bit nauseous after the swim, which had me slightly worried. During lunch on Friday afternoon, we met up with the rest of the Modern Athlete Dare to Tri Academy members. It was my birthday and they all made it very special. Thanks guys! The off we went to the expo where a lot of shopping happened. We attended the race briefing on Friday and this is when I realised that this is it – the months of training, the crazy early morning runs and rides, the time away from family – and it all boils down to this one day.

Saturday morning it was back to the sea for our swim, which went better than Friday and I didn’t feel nauseous at all. It was time to get transition bags packed, bikes numbered and get ready for bike check-in. Having Johan by my side helped calm all my butterflies. We had an early dinner and needless to say, I couldn’t fall asleep. But instead of stressing, I went through the race in my mind until I eventually fell asleep.

THE BIG DAY
Sunday morning arrived a lot faster than it should have. We had an early breakfast and did all our last-minute checks, then made our way down to the beach. The national anthem was sung and before I knew it my swim had started. I got out of the swim, into transition and was on my bike. The bike was a lot harder than I remembered from the previous year and when I reached the halfway mark I felt a bit emotional, because I knew last year this was how far I made it. The way back was easier but we still had to deal with a headwind. I used every bit of power I had to make sure that I made the bike cut-off. There was no way that I wasn’t going to make it this year!

Once I was back at transition I sat in the tent for a minute and thought: I’ve got this in the bag! On the run I saw Johan and shouted: “I did it, I finished the bike!” Running on tired legs was hard, but I got through it one kilometre at a time. Getting to see Johan every time I ran past the finish line was amazing. When I saw the finishing line I knew that there was no way I wasn’t going to shed a tear. I crossed the finishing line with Johan right there waiting for me. I was an Ironman 70.3 finisher. I cried a lot!

This was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life and I’m glad I did it. Without Johan, my kids and my family I don’t think I would have done it, but I had a great support system and that makes all the difference. Will I go back? If you asked straight after the race, I would have said that I am not sure. But now, two days later, I will have to say yes!

JOHN MCINROY
Nickname: Basutoland Pony
Age: 30
Self-given Unogwaja Title: Mr. ShoOops

About me: I am self-employed and from Cape Town. I follow my heart because it has led me to experiences that I could not have imagined in my wildest dreams. I am on a mission to spread the shoOops! all over the world! Grab yourself a pair of red socks, say shoooOooops and you will get the vibe! The treatiest thing about me is I have worked as a doctor before, without ever studying.

Goals:

• To meet Barack Obama and to tell him about how I dreamt of him addressing millions in Washington DC wearing his red socks and giving a shoOops!
• To act in a romantic comedy feature film like Notting Hill in a ‘Hugh Grantesque’ role.
• To sing and play the guitar in front of an audience.
• To create the most epic flashmob uniting people from all over with little/no budget and just pure passion – and in doing so get a part in the next Step Up movie.
• To keep striving to make the Unogwaja Challenge the most unique biathlon in the world, and above all else: Never give up on following my heart!

Charity I support: The Pink Drive – SMS “race 666” to 42030 to donate to John’s cause.

TIAGO DIONISIO
Nickname: Pope
Age: 38
Self-given Unogwaja Title: Comrades Ambassador – Portugal

About me: I am an economist from Portugal and have been working in investment banking for over 13 years. My main sport is running, through which I can inspire and help others. I am also a Comrades Marathon ambassador for Portugal and the proud owner of a Comrades Green Number. The treatiest thing about me is that I have helped raise over 350 000 euros for charity since 1999.

Goals:

•  Have a blast at the Unogwaja Challenge 2013.

•  Run across my home country of Portugal for charity in 2013.

Charity I support: The Sports Trust – SMS “race 651” to 42030 to donate to Tiago’s cause.

BEVERLEY DAVEY

Nickname: SSG (Super Sunshine Girl)

Age: 31

Self-given Unogwaja Title: Minister of Enthusiasm (MOE)

About me: I am a Diabetes Educator from Johannesburg and my sports are swimming, biking and running. When I’m on the bike and feel the wind rushing by and when I feel the road below my feet, for that time life is bliss! I am bright and bubbly and love sports and the outdoors. I love to inspire and create joy for others, and see opportunity in everything. The treatiest thing about me is my smile and sunshine attitude.

Goals:

•  Unogwaja Challenge 2013.

•  Ironman 2013.

•  Extreme Dodo trail run.

•  Single speed SA Champs.

•  Inspire people and do things that create joy.

Charity I support: World Vision – SMS “race 670” to 42030 to donate to Bev’s cause.

JOFF GOUVERIS

Nickname: The Shy Guy

Age: 32

Self-given Unogwaja Title: Governer

About me: I am a self-employed retailer from Pretoria and my main sport is running. I believe that if you run, you are a runner! Doesn’t matter how fast or far. No test to pass, no license to earn! You just run. I’m also into Foo Fighters and am an Aston Villa fan! The treatiest thing about me is I have a good habit of putting everyone else first and then only worrying about myself… and I wear red socks on Fridays, too.

Goals:

•  To cover Ptown (Pretoria) in Red Socks every Friday.

•  Unogwaja Challenge 2013.

•  Comrades 2013.

•  Two Ocean Ultra under 5:15.

•  Run a sub-3:45 marathon.

Charity I support: World Vision – SMS “race 664” to 42020 to donate to Joff’s cause.

All information and images supplied by Nutreats and extracted from their #TreatyProfile Unogwaja edition weekly features. To find out more about the weekly profiles and the Unogwaja Challenge 2013 Team, go to www.nutreats.co.za.

 The gruelling 698km route with 15 650m of climbing from Citrusdal to Lourensford Wine Estate might seem a daunting task to many an athlete, but for seasoned rider John Gale, a chartered accountant from Cape Town, the ABSA Cape Epic is an annual must. “The race is a staggering one. My first run blew me away and it’s a mammoth undertaking for anybody,” says John. “You also have an opportunity to participate with the best in the world – you’re actually surrounded by world champs!”

John’s first Epic entry came by chance and was a last-minute decision. He had done just 60km of training and admits that he totally unprepared for the distance. “I guess I didn’t read the fine print and I had no idea what I was letting myself in for,” he explains. “It was the hardest ride I had ever done, and we had to make do and learn along the route.”

THE ANNUAL CHALLENGE
Always an active person, John took up mountain biking and running after varsity and plotted several goals each year, taking part in four Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathons, finishing numerous mountain bike races such as To Hell and Back, Sani2C, Wines2Whales, the Rhodes Mountain Bike Marathon as well as the Knysna Mountain Bike Race. “My running has definitely helped my cycling over the years,” he says, “and going out for a run is the most effective thing you can do in terms of fitness. You can go for a 10km cycle and it’s an easy ride, while a 10km run tests you a bit more.” With a special focus on the Epic each year, John has cut down his running due to a niggling calf injury, but is still hoping to run his fifth Two Oceans one day.

So why does John keep coming back to the Epic? “The first time was by chance. My second time I was offered an entry before I started training properly and my third time just came along,” he explains. “I’ve been very lucky to stay fit enough each year so I can participate – it’s an administrative wonder when you see thousands moving together with ready available resources at every turn!”

SIDELINE SUPPORT
Living in Cape Town, John says the Epic has always been a ‘convenient’ event for his family, and he has been lucky over the years to have no work issues get in the way of his participation, while he wakes early each morning to fit in training rides. “For one to survive the Epic, you need to get more than 11 hours of training in a week and long rides on weekends. I have lots of support from my wife Beth and my two kids, and we often find races close to us that the whole family can take part in.” Beth also makes sure the family eats right, which goes a long way to helping John’s training and active lifestyle. “In this type of event, it’s not possible without the support of your partner,” says John, “especially on those eight days of riding. Beth knows that it is something I want to pursue.”

Over the years, John has ridden the Epic with various partners, Riaan Meintjies, Jakes Jacobsen and George Evans, and reveals that he has learnt a lot compared to his first two attempts at the event. “In any team event, as opposed to a solo run, you are dependent on the people around you – especially with this massive distance to overcome. You can’t fight with your partners; at the end of the day it’s about having fun.” This year, he says he and riding partner George are fit and ready to race, despite the mystery that surrounds the route. “You never really know what you’re going to experience or how your ride is going to go,” says John, “it’s just a tremendous race through the most stunning parts of SA.”

He also feels that Epic first-timers don’t need his advice. “The amount of info out there compared to years gone by is unbelievable. In my first year there was a contingent of international riders who had done the Trans Alps and Rockies, but the rest were Dusi and Comrades goers who had little knowledge of the race. Nowadays, no one pitches up unprepared.”

SPECIAL TIMES
For John, the 10th anniversary will be a special one, but he says it will not be his last Epic. In fact, he reckons he will most likely be back year after year. “It would be difficult to ever let go of the Epic – I have this compelling desire to do all of them!”

For more info on the ABSA Cape Epic, visit www.cape-epic.com, and follow the event on Twitter: @AbsaCapeEpic.

Imagine an event where only 31 of the world’s toughest adventure athletes get chosen to take part. Now imagine these guys running or hiking at least 80km per day in harsh Alpine conditions, in an 864km non-stop race from Salzburg, Austria to Monaco, and also paragliding off some of the most spectacular mountains. This is the Red Bull X-Alps, one of the toughest endurance events in the world! And Pierre Carter (46), an adventure addict who thrives on new challenges – and incredible heights – will once again represent South Africa at this year’s event on 7 July.

Participants must have mountaineering, running and paragliding experience, and are selected from thousands of applicants worldwide. It is the third time that Pierre will be taking part in the X-Alps and he hopes that it will be third time lucky. In 2009 he went in with little experience of that part of the world and crashed on the third day, eventually finishing 28th. “In 2011 I tackled it again, a bit more prepared, and I was in the top 10 for the first couple of days, but unfortunately picked up a stomach bug and finished 21st. This year I am hoping to finish in the top 10,” says Pierre.

PIECES OF THE PUZZLE
The exact route is only revealed close to the time and contestants can then choose how they get to the finish. “That means you combine, running, hiking and paragliding by either following the road or gliding over some of the mountains,” says Pierre, who started his career as a rock climber before he saw world-renowned SA rock climber Andrew de Klerk paragliding off a peak in Peru. “I then thought this is the way to go!” Pierre quickly moved through the ranks and made a name for himself competing as part of a team at several world championship events in France, Switzerland and Japan, while also earning his Springbok colours.

X-Alps participants have to carry their kit of about 14kg and hike or run the route while they wait for good weather to fly as far as they can. Conditions are usually harsh, with a lot of rain and snow. “It all depends on weather conditions and your technical flying ability as to how far you will fly and how far you will hike or run. I usually hike and run 500km and cover about 250km with my paraglider.” Training for an event such as the Red Bull X-Alps is not for sissies, he says. “I fly as much as I can on weekends. I’m also following an ultra-marathon running programme over 22 weeks, with a peak week of 180km.”

MASSIVE UNDERTAKING
The race has no entry fee but the costs to get there and then get around once there are astronomical, and can run up to R80 000. “I am therefore very grateful to my sponsors, which include Muscle Science, Blue Eyewear, First Ascent, Innovate, Red Bull and Gradient Paragliders. Also, James Braid, an experienced paragliding pilot, is my second at the race. He thinks for me, informs me of the weather, helps find the best routes, supplies food and organises meeting spots.”

As soon as the winner reaches the finish line in Monaco, the rest of the field are informed and given 24 hours to get as far as they can before the race is stopped and contestants are placed. The best part of the race is that all entrants are ‘obliged’ to get themselves to Monaco for the party of the year. “Then it is time to put my feet up and allow them to heal. My next goal will be to prepare for my next summit,” says Pierre. (See sidebar.)

UP FOR THE CHALLENGE?
Who would be quicker in the majestic Drakensberg: Paragliders, runners or cyclists? Pierre is putting this to the test in a brand new event he is organising, the 180km X-Berg Challenge (20-24 March), starting at Oliviershoek Pass and finishing at Underberg. More info: [email protected] or [email protected].

FLYING THE SEVEN SUMMITS
About 10 years ago Pierre set himself the goal of climbing the summits of the highest mountains of each of the seven continents and paragliding from them. Together with an experienced team he has already tackled Mt Elbrus (Europe, July 2010), Mt Aconcagua (South America, January 2011) and Mt Kilimanjaro (Africa, September 2011). “It takes about eight days to climb Kilimanjaro and another two days to climb down. It takes a mere hour to fly down, which means we are in the bar having a beer while others are still climbing,” says Pierre. The team is hoping to document their journey and in the process raise funds for charity – follow their progress at www.7summits7flights.co.za.
-end-

Modern
Athlete and triathlon coach Derick Marcisz started the Dare to Tri Academy in
August 2012 after a very successful inaugural Dare to Tri programme in 2011. In
that first year, 10 novice triathletes were trained and coached to Ironman
70.3. The inaugural programme was such a huge success that we decided to start
the Dare to Tri Academy, which gave everybody the opportunity to train under
the guidance of a triathlon coach and with like-minded athletes. Just over 40
triathletes signed up to the Academy, which promised to take them from novice
triathlete to Ironman 70.3 finisher in 2013, and what a journey it has been.

Training at the Academy started one month earlier (September)
than the previous year and one of the highlights of the
Dare to Tri programme was the instant bond that was formed between academy
members. It was great to see an initial bunch of strangers becoming friends
through the sport of triathlon, and it was clear that the common goal of
finishing Ironman 70.3 and a shared passion for the sport of triathlon bound
the athletes together. “I know it is a clich? to say that the journey is as
important as the destination, but this was really true!” says coach Derick
Marcisz to the Academy members. “If you enjoyed the training and the company of
your fellow triathletes during the last four months, then that is already a
good reason to have been part of the Dare to Tri Academy.”

Two of the highlights of the past training months included
the Total Immersion swimming workshop held at Bass Lake in the south of
Johannesburg. The workshop was hosted by Georgie Thomas, owner and operator of
Total Immersion South Africa and turned out to be a huge success. Thank you,
Georgie! The other highlight was the training triathlon held at the Vaal and
hosted by Dare to Tri Academy members Bryan and Juls Webster. 22 Academy
members took part and afterwards it was clear that they were all ready for
Ironman 70.3 South Africa.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Of the 42 triathletes who signed up at the Academy,
ten did not enter 70.3 or did not make the starting line due to a variety of
reasons, but many of them still trained and socialised with the group. Another
four triathletes that started 70.3 were not able to finish. “I know they will
be back next year to give 70.3 the payback it deserves. As the coach, I am
extremely proud of the 32 Dare to Tri triathletes that lined up on Orient Beach
on race day,” says Derick.

Below are the finishing times of the Dare to Tri
finishers:

Nic Olsen                               5:59:38

Matthew Cook                        6:01:50

Terry-Lynne McIntosh:             6:09:50

Bryan Webster                       6:25:24

Derick Marcisz (the coach)      6:30:55

Johan Van der Westhuizen      6:31:37

Dave Bennett                         6:33:35

Brenda Pritchard                    6:34:03

Johan Van Rooyen                 6:35:07

Mike Smit                              6:44:37

Carlos Morias                         6:48:06

Claire Malik                            6:48:58

Neville Chamberlain                6:49:04

Sarah-Jane Horscroft              6:50:05

Frans Van der Linde               6:50:10

Pieter Steyn                           6:53:00

Jean Louw                             7:00:36

Freda Smit                             7:03:52

Juls Webster                          7:04:07

Ashley Bannister                    7:05:51

Marius Grobler                       7:11:46

Candice Hepburn                    7:19:29

Melissa Van Rensburg            7:38:47

Que Lebatha                          7:43:00

Elsa Du Toit                           7:46:02

Christelle Van Rooyen            8:19:12

In the team event, Peter Todd (swim) and Frank Saieva (bike
and run) finished in 6:47:43. They have both committed to the individual event
in 2014.

The DARE TO TRI ACADEMY has been a fantastic
initiative and the plan is to continue with this in 2014. Keep an eye on Modern
Athlete for more details.

HEROES

CHRISTELLE
VAN ROOYEN:

Last year I didn’t get to finish 70.3 due to stomach
cramps and dehydration, so this year all I was aiming for was a finish. I
didn’t care what my time was, as long as I got to run down the red carpet. Race
morning broke and the nerves started. The swim was tough, but I was happy with
my time. The bike leg was windy and I kept my eye on the clock the whole way. I
knew that I would have to push the last few kays to make the cut-off. I dug
deep into a place that I didn’t even know I had. When I got to transition in
time I cried a little bit and sat in the tent before the run started, thinking
I’ve got this in the bag. I started running with tired legs, but a happy heart.
On the run I kept an eye out for my husband Johan and when I saw him it gave me
that little extra surge of energy I needed. Crossing the finish line, I cried a
lot, and getting to see Johan waiting for me at the end was an amazing feeling.
I’m proud to say that I completed the 70.3 in 8:19.

IAN BROLI:

Regrettably I did not achieve my goal. I had a good
swim and the bike leg started well. Unfortunately, I had mechanical problems
from about 15km and my chain came off five times in the first half. I wasted
about 25 minutes on repairs and didn’t use the two lower gears in the second
half, so I missed the bike cut-off by 10 to 12 minutes. The good news is that I
felt strong, enjoyed the journey and will be back next year to complete 70.3!

MARIUS
GROBLER

70.3 was a dream come true! I did one BSG Triathlon
and did not finish at 11 Global due to panicking in the swim. After that, I did
more open water swims, which gave me more confidence for 70.3. Standing at the
start of the swim gave me goose bumps. This race changed me forever, and will
make every athlete humble. Race day, the vibe and the event, especially running
down the red carpet, was MAGIC! I finished in 7:11:46. Thanks to my mom for
everything leading up to the race and everybody else for the support. With much
more training, racing and experience under the belt, Orient Beach will see me
in 2014!

OLIVIA
JOSEPHS:

I missed the bike cut-off by seven minutes. I enjoyed
the swim, but the bike leg was a killer, and what made it worse was the wind
from the turn point. I am still licking my wounds, but am slowly making peace
with the disappointment and I’m ready to go back to the drawing board. Thanks
for all the support, it really meant a lot.

MIKE &
FREDA SMIT

Our race started off with a big jolt! As we were
waiting for our wave to start, the medics carried one of the athletes who had
suffered a heart attack past us to the medical tent. This had a huge impact on
my wife Freda and my own mindset, as I had suffered a heart attack in September
last year. You can just imagine what went through our minds, as swimming is my
weakest discipline. However, we spoke about just staying relaxed, which we did
and ended up having a comfortable swim. The cycle leg went relatively well,
considering the huge hills that never seemed to end. Hills and head wind, not
easy. It was disappointing to see our cycle times afterwards, which showed that
we should have pushed a bit harder. However, in saying that, we did not want to
arrive for the run on dead legs!

The run was amazing with all the crowd support on the
beachfront. They ensured you kept going, no matter how tired the legs were.
Cramping was an issue, but whenever you wanted to stop, you were egged on by
the people on the side of the road. Running onto the red carpet was extremely
emotional. We had entered Ironman 70.3 a week before I suffered the heart
attack, and Freda and I only decided at the end of October that maybe it was
still possible to do the 70.3, so actually competing in and finishing the race
was huge for both of us. Training with the Dare to Tri group definitely ensured
that we would be fit enough to take on this huge task. Thanks to Derick and our
fellow DTT athletes for helping Freda and I to achieve this goal.

STEPHANIE STANLEY

I wish I had results and an experience to share with you, but a
pelvic stress fracture that I picked up in December put paid to my dreams of
completing 70.3. I was forced to withdraw. I have already entered for 2014 and
am looking forward to an injury free year of training.

JEAN LOUW

What an experience! It really helped to follow Derick’s program
as I was not only physically, but also mentally prepared. All the prayers from
friends and family helped me to keep calm and collective on race day. I
visualized the swim, bike and run throughout the week and focused
on enjoying every moment of the race. I kept on reminding myself that
I did not spend the last 4 months of training just to stress about  race day. On the day I started the swim by
walking into the ocean as if I was going for a swim, first getting used to the
water temperature. I noticed that I was last of my age group to start the
swim, but it didn’t bother me at all. I was going to start this race
relaxed and comfortable. I had a good bike and started the run slow, but finished
the run fast. I crossed the line in 7:00.36. What a great day!  

NEVILLE CHAMBERLAIN

I
enjoyed the race although it was quite tough with strong winds on the bike and
hot weather on the run. I had to take sponges at each water point to cool down
during the run. Unfortunately my wife Helena, missed the cut off on the bike leg
again by a mere 5 minutes. I therefore have mixed feelings about the event. We
will definitely be back next year to get her medal! My finishing time was 6:49:04.