FEATURE
These days it’ s like“ looking down a straw— my peripheral vision was already limited, but is now even more limited”. Luckily Kathleen was given Ginty, a five-year-old yellow Labrador, who has been quite literally her guiding light since August 2021.
“ She loves me no matter what mood I am in.”
Surely all this meant the end of her triathlon journey? Nope. Here’ s where things get next-level inspiring. She didn’ t just keep going: she kept racing. Triathlons, trail running, and even South African Champs in the Para-triathlon category. She also found a race guide who could match her every bit of the way.
Veronica Warmington is a seasoned triathlete, serial podium snatcher and, apparently, Kathleen’ s sporting soulmate. The two only met on the Thursday before the race.
Their partnership in the swim, ride and run was pure magic.“ It was amazing to find someone who, in such a short space of time, I could trust in and know I was safe,” says Kathleen.“ It meant I could concentrate on my race plan instead of second-guessing everything.”
Veronica adds, with a grin:“ Being the pilot, I knew Kathleen was relying on me to make the correct calls, provide precise info, and not disappear into the distance— though, let’ s be real, she probably could’ ve caught me anyway.”
By that Sunday, they were standing on top of the podium, gold medals glinting, all done on a borrowed tandem bike chain hanging on by sheer willpower.
Kathleen’ s advice for those navigating tough times?“ Be the light that you are seeking. Remember others are showing up for you— don’ t let them down.”
So, next time life hits you with a curveball( or a bike chain slips mid-race) remember Kathleen, Veronica and Ginty. Keep going. Keep glowing. And if all else fails, borrow a bike and blaze your own trail.
Kathleen would like to thank her Tri-Club, who have assisted with her coaching and training: ASPIRE # Livefit www. aspirelivefit. com
If you want to learn more about guiding, or would like to find out how you could support Kathleen, please contact her on: kathleen @ bvdm. co. za
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