09 Jan Runners support kids with cancer at AfricanX
By Jacky McClean
Stellenbosch based trail runners Chantel Nienaber and Chris Visser are proud to support CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA by taking on South Africa’s premier three-day stage trail run, the AFRICANX TRAILRUN that will take place at the Houw Hoek Hotel (Western Cape) the weekend of 17 – 19 March 2023.
Chantel Nienaber and Chris Visser in action during the 2021 AFRICANX TRAILRUN 3-Day Stage Race. PHOTO: Tobias Ginsberg
Although Nienaber is no stranger to AFRICANX, Visser made his event debut in 2021 and this will only be the second time that he toes the line at this iconicthree-day stage trail run.
“After competing in 2021 I could see why AFRICANX is called South Africa’s premier three-day stage trail run,” says Visser. “The race organization was on point; the trails were extremely well marked, and the race village had an incredible atmosphere. Add to the mix some of South Africa’s finest runners(trail and road) and you had an event to remember. I’m really excited to team up with Chantel again. She brings lots of experience to the table. She’s extremely well organized and always prepared. I also enjoy her company, which is critically important if you are going to be spending so much time together training and racing.”
“We’ll be running in support of CHOC and our team’s name is COWrageous,”laughs Visser. “As a CHOC Cow I do my best to raise funds and awareness for the Foundation. If one person donates or asks about CHOC, my goal will be achieved. It is an absolute honour to take on SA’s premier three–day stage race in support of such a fantastic foundation.”
The CHOC Cows came out to support Chantel Nienaber and Chris Visser at the start of Stage 3 of the AFRICANX TRAILRUN 3-Day Stage Race in 2021. From left to right: Marvin Smith (in the cow onesie), Bradley Ross (in the sea green top), Torrin Theron, Chris Visser, Chantel Nienaber and Nikki Boshoff (in the cow onesie). PHOTO: Tobias Ginsberg
According to Nienaber, AFRICANX is normally her first race of the season. “AFRICANX is like a family gathering and it’s great to see so many familiar faces,” says Nienaber. “I competed in my first AFRICANX TRAILRUN Three-Day Stage Race in 2012 and have returned many times afterwards. It’s become part of my trail running career. The event creates the perfect opportunity for trail runners to spend time with their trail buddies.”
“I’m happy to team up with Chris again,” admits Nienaber. “He is the most dedicated and committed runner that I know. I couldn’t ask for a better teammate. Although Chris is finally a Vet (40 – 49 years of age) and I am just about a Master (50 – 59 years of age), I would be lying if I said that we didn’t want to podium at the event, but ultimately our goal will be to have a great time on the trails with our trail running family. I am getting too old to race, so this will be the last year that I take part competitively. I am happy to celebrate my final team event of my racing career with Chris. I am also very proud to compete in the colours of CHOC, an incredible charity that supports children that have cancer.”
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