16/10/2025
Two years ago, I returned to South Africa for my cousin’s wedding. I’d been before at 18 but never had the chance to explore the Helderberg Mountains.
In October 2023, that changed. I realised there’s no better way to use my fitness than through hiking, mountain biking, exploring, and spending time with family and new friends.
For my cousin’s stag, we went mountain biking at Lourensford Wine Farm before the main party kicked off later that night. A few days later, Chris, also known as Mamba, invited me to hike in Helderberg Nature Reserve. It was so peaceful we didn’t pass a single person. Chris is also a PT, and it was great to connect – two trainers talking life and movement surrounded by total stillness.
That hike lit a fire, so the next morning I decided to climb again. Three sweaty hours later I was at the summit – no Cape Cobras, thankfully – just a cold beer, some biltong, and one epic view.
But I wasn’t done. I had a shop ride planned that evening, so I ran most of the way down, jumped in the car, got changed, and drove 20 minutes back to the other side of the mountain. The climb was brutally steep, and thank goodness for the e-bike. The pace was fast, the group was class, and the post-ride beer tasted even better.
That day summed up everything I love – using strength, resilience, and fitness to live life fully. But more than that, it reminded me why I push so hard in life.
Because my goal isn’t just to reach the top of the mountain again – it’s to stand there with Kate, Rohan, and Saxon. That’s the real “why.” That’s what every early morning, every late night, every sacrifice is for.
I want the freedom, health, and energy to share moments like that with them.
So when I train, it’s not about chasing numbers – it’s about building a life that lets me say yes to adventure, family, and the best gym in the world: the outdoors.
(And yes, I know there are other beautiful places too 😁
– if your fitness is holding you back from saying yes to days like this – join my free community and start making the change. DM 'FIT' and I send you the link.
