Completing a triathlon is no small feat, but for one woman it was a challenge she was willing to undertake to support a cause close to her heart. Carla Annas (33) wanted to raise funds for a scholarship for underprivileged children, and completed the official Isuzu Ironman Durban 70.3 on Sunday 4 June.
This follows two-self organised events she had started off with, the latter kick-starting a Community In Action (CIA) project to provide a full scholarship for a girl child to attend the Stellenbosch Waldorf School. (“Challenge for education: Tri-athlete wants to give back to community”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 27 October 2022).
Annas had always been passionate about sports and fitness, and had participated in self-organised triathlons in the past.
“However, an official event is a whole new ball-game and requires a different level of preparation and endurance. But I was determined to complete it, not just for my own personal achievement, but also to make a difference in the lives of a girl child whose world will change with an education.”
Annas’s goal was to raise R500 000 towards the scholarship fund, which would provide financial support to a child from a low-income family to pursue their education.
She started a crowd-funding campaign and reached out to her friends, family, and colleagues to contribute towards the cause. Her initiative received overwhelming support, and within months reached the halfway mark.
But Annas knew raising the funds was only half the battle. She had to train rigorously to prepare her body and mind for the gruelling triathlon.
She also had to consider that children had already started school at the beginning of the year, yet she was already committed and “all-in”.
“Knowing I’m doing this just gave me a whole new level of focus and motivation. I conducted the interview with several child candidates and upon selection I also formed a bond with this bright little girl who is the beneficiary.”
She said all elements of the race went better than expected, the sea was calm and the cycle and running went really well.
Finally, Annas crossed the finish line, exhausted but elated. She had completed the triathlon in just over seven hours, but more than that, she has so far raised well over R400 000 towards the scholarship fund, which would provide a lifeline to a child in need.
Annas’ journey is a testament to the power of determination and the impact that even one person can make.
Her efforts had not only raised funds for a noble cause but serves as a reminder that we all have the power to make a difference, no matter how small our contribution may seem.
Annas is now overseas for the next three months where she works as a chief stewardess on a yacht, but will continue training ahead of her return to South Africa where she will continue her plight to raise funds for those who need it the most.
To track her progress follow @carla.annas on Instagram, where the link and QR code for donations can also be found.
