Tell us a bit about yourself

I am an ordinary woman with an abusive past as I mentioned before.  I have learned in life that you have to stand up for yourself, to believe that you are worth it and that your dreams can come true.  I am the Sports Ambassador for EPIC Foundation, that empowers people in crisis and stands against rape and abuse as well as a brand ambassador for Keto Sports Nutrition.  I live a minimal lifestyle and do my best to give back where I can.  My purpose is to be a little light to at least 1 other person stuck in an abusive situation so that they know it is ok to still dream and to fight for your freedom and to NEVER NEVER GIVE UP

How did your race go at Durban Ultra?

It was amazing - my first Ultra and for sure not my last - although not sure I will be brave enough for Durban again! It was my second Triathlon in Durban and second time around that those damn waves got to me. This time around I could not even get past the breakers L

I had a calf injury going into the event, so Damian generously agreed that I could change it to a Team Entry last minute.  So Team Zenfit was ready to kick butt.  Like I said, the butt kicking was over before it started when the sea spat me out like last years old bread which meant we were disqualified lol.  That is where another big bonus from MiWay Durban kicked in.  We were still able to continue on the bike and run even so.  That is a huge plus point, let me tell you, because financially it was a really big commitment to enter the race for me. 

So, with tired legs after a long hard week of training, which included a 90km bike ride out to Ballito the day before, I tackled the bike as if the sea demons were behind me.  It was quite priceless when all the pro dudes came past wondering how the hell this chick they do not know was in front of them! The look on the faces said WTF  - made for good giggles on the bike.  I finished the bike strong and looking at the results was fastest on the bike on my category - very pleasing! I only wish I could have done that run.  But Daniel was ready and waiting for his leg of our Team. We both had such a good time out there despite being disqualified.

So it turned out more like a training session for Ironman but the best training session I had in a very long time - so thank you. Would love to go back next year to race though - will have to see about booking Glen Gore for some next level “get through the surf swim” lessons. Oh, and being treated as a VIP at Registration – OH MY WORD - I felt like royalty.  Thank you.

How does being an athlete make you a better person?

I am a survivor of childhood rape and abuse.  So sport and triathlon more specific has been monumental in helping to grow me into the woman I am today.  It has given me self-confidence, self-esteem and a belief in myself that I am good enough. It has shown me that I am capable of doing anything that I set my mind on, that I can make a positive difference in someone else’s life and that my value does not depend on someone else's opinion of me.  

Being an athlete also teaches you about self-discipline, about being conscious and not just living on auto-drive.  it teaches you gratitude.  It changes you into being a more caring and giving human being.  it teaches you the importance of giving back, of living with purpose.

What is your favourite sports quote?

"If your mind can believe it, your body can achieve it" and “she believed she could, so she did.” Simple really!

What one word describes you?

Determined

What do you do to calm your butterflies before or when you compete?

I normally get butterflies a day or two before the race - then I switch off, go into my head or if in PE for Ironman, sit on the beach and stare at the ocean - my meditation.  I go over every detail of the race.  My heart races like I am actually already out on the course racing.  Comes race day, the water calms me and I tend to forget I am racing whilst doing the swim - I am always filled with gratitude to be fortunate enough to be able to do an open water or sea swim - such a privilege.  Then when I get to the bike it is OMW - it is race day lol - and then it is you against you 

What is playing on your Ipod when you train?

I don’t own an iPod or any other music playing device so it is the voices in my head!

What stands out for you as a MiFitLife customer?

The peace of mind knowing that should the paw paw hit the fan I am covered.  And then after this weekend, being treated like a VIP.  #humbled