TRIATHLON DEVELOPMENT
TRI FOR CHANGE
Nelson Mandela Bay’s Siyaphambili Triathlon Participation Programme
strives to identify and train potential triathletes and help them participate at
IRONMAN events around the country. We caught up with coach Justin Butler.
Zolile Mhlahlo (this pic) and Zuko
Njokweni (bottom left) were among
26 Siyaphambili athletes who took
part in the 2019 Standard Bank
IRONMAN African Championship.
ustin, what is Siyaphambili?
We are a non-profit initiative
that helps individuals from
previously disadvantaged backgrounds
to compete in IRONMAN events.
Triathlon is typically a high-barrier-
to-entry sport and we assist athletes
who due to financial constraints would
otherwise be unable to participate. We
ensure our athletes have the equipment,
training programme, coaching, nutrition
and living environment to ensure
their successful participation. The
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programme also aims to assist athletes
with travel and accommodation costs,
making it possible for them to take part
in the sport. is treated as an individual and areas of
strength and weakness are highlighted
and those weaker areas are given the
attention required.
How did the programme start?
We started in 2005 with just seven
athletes. Some of the initial group were
recommended to Race and Development
Team Director Paul Wolff by other
triathletes, while others, like Hanson
Singaphi, were discovered while working
at the Virgin Active Gym. Each member What have been your greatest
achievements? The Siyaphambili
programme has now grown to include
30 athletes whose lives have all been
changed in a positive manner since
they joined. We have successfully
created multiple IRONMAN 70.3 and
IRONMAN distance finishers. With