BackCELEBRITY SPOTTED AT BIKE CHECK-IN

By Michael Flanagan

A seemingly endless queue snaked its way along Buffalo City’s Orient Beach to the transition point for the Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa where bike check-in was underway. Athletes endured the heat and displayed a decent amount of patience as they lined up to check arguably their most prized possession into the transition area.

Although there was a tinge of frustration at waiting in the long queue, the real feelings were a combination of excitement and nerves. A host of colourful characters sporting even more colourful bikes created a sense of wonder around the beach area with onlookers staring from all locations trying to see what all the hype is about. Athletes from all over the world have flocked to Buffalo City to match fitness with endurance across the three disciplines.

One could have been mistaken for thinking that the large number of people were queuing up to see a celebrity when ironically there was a certain South African media personality in the midst. 2009 Idols presenter, Liezel van der Westhuizen also made her way to the bike check-in before race day and was feeling the pressure although one would hardly notice as she kept a calm exterior. “Being on television is definitely easier as I know what to expect and even presenting in front of 4 million Idols fans is not as nerve wracking as Ironman; but they say nerves are good,” says Liezel. After training for three and a half months, Liezel feels that her chances are 50/50 although her main aim is to make the cut off point. “I wanted to set myself the challenge of completing the full Ironman in April and I think there is no better place than the Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa to start. I love East London for the friendliness of the people and the fact that it is by the sea,” adds Liezel.

“I am really excited and nervous at the same time but it is my first Ironman event and it is an unbelievable experience,” says Liezel.

The general feeling of excitement and anticipation on the eve of race day is enough to cause some sleepless nights and anxious moods but come race day, athletes and spectators will be in for a day of thrills.