Xterra Buffelspoort, Johannesburg, RSA

2:22′ish – wasnt paying sufficient prize giving attention

2nd, to Conrad Stoltz

Got myself back to Lanseria far more timely than yesterday morning’s CPT Int panic arrival, and so am seated at Vida e with time to reflect on the first Xterra of the year while the heavens thunder and shower Highveld rains outside.

There were two events today, the Xterra Lite and the Xterra Full, with the Lite outnumbering the Full two to one in a combined total of 1500 athletes. Phenomenal support for the Xterra style of triathlon, such that it is reminiscent of the old Energade Sprint Series I was raised on. Well up growth wise from the 1100 of last year. I am really excited to be a part of this movement, and feel like we’re gaining ground, building something healthy and green and passionate.

Totalsports – my retail partner for whom I’m the ambassador, had their rebrand look and feel on display for the first time today, which is quite a shift from Duesouth. A positive and vibey shift at that, and neat to be there in support of them. Their title sponsorship of the South African Xterra series is a significant one that will take the lifestyle to a much larger audience with their 200 store footprint. One of their key buyers attended this morning, scouting out for future trends. Such a positive moment to have on of the largest national sport retailers planning to cater for the Xterra clan. I love it.

All that said, positive, much positive. The body had little top-end, but that is January racing for you, but seems to have absorbed the Totalsports Challenge and solid volume of this week in a constructive way. I’m a different specie to the same date last year. Happy with my mobility and base strength, and my niggle is in the clear. Left with a good anticipation for the coming two months of key work.

Stoltz is going well and was better prepared for the race, congrats to him. Stuart Marais, the lad that pushed me onto a drip and into a deep dark place two weeks ago, went well for third.

But I believe the day belongs to the masses, many of whom I got to smile at during my warm up routine. The Lite started two and half hours ahead of the Full. So much clueless fun on show. Big congrats to you, if it was your first. Hoping you’ll return for more. Appreciated many of you wishing me well during your race! although more focus next time… And thanks for hanging after to cheer my chase on the run.

I’ll be in my own bed four hours from now, which sounds delicious. And tomorrow we’re six about the family table for the first time since April 201o. My middle sister who’s been doing her Masters research in Uganda returned yesterday, along with the youngest one who has been visiting for a month. Cant hardly wait to get out to the farm tomorrow. Reckon the stories will be at a high frequency.

Thanks for the support.