A 32-year-old fitness fanatic who completed her own Ironman event in June has set her sights on yet another self-organised event – this time to raise funds for a full scholarship for an underprivileged child at Stellenbosch Waldorf School.
Carla Annas, a Stellenbosch local who works as chief stewardess on a yacht overseas, is eager to make her next event more meaningful on the back of her satisfying Ironman-like debut participation. “The experience inspired me to found Community in Action (CIA), a movement to support education in South Africa through sport. I want my races to have a purpose and a meaningful impact.”
Her goal is to raise R500 000 by race day – set for a route in Pringle Bay on Sunday 27 November.
Annas is a former learner of Stellenbosch Waldorf School, which she said laid the basis for her own climb to success. Now she has time she wishes to give back to the community. “During my studies I volunteered at Girls & Football SA,” she explained. “I want to be part of something bigger again. Education is key to our future, and it’s time we focused on primary schoolchildren.”
Through CIA she hopes to raise funds to drive education in the community.
Annas still hopes to compete in an official Ironman event and tried to enter the Mossel Bay 70.3 event, but entries were filled when she was ready to enter. She took this as a sign to launch her own event again. DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette reported on Annas completing the Ironman-like event after conquering Covid-19 (“Ironwoman creates own challenge”, 22 June).
“Pringle Bay proved a great base last time; it becomes a very community based event where my friends, family and Waldorf school learners can support me.”
She also recently competed and completed the Cape Town Triathlon, the 10 km OUTsurance Gun Run and Harbour2Harbour swim in Gordon’s Bay.
Annas urged locals to support the cause by donating any amount. “Please consider donating, no matter how big or small, to support the education of an underprivileged child in SA.”
To track her progress follow @carla.annas on Instagram, where the link and QR code for donations can also be found.
