Durbanville local and fitness junkie Liardus Nel who had high hopes of winning the grand prize in Tropika Island of Treasure season 10 has been eliminated.
Nel was chosen by Sria Reddy, the top-ranking consumer contestant, to be on a team together on the popular Tropika Island of Treasure reality game show, making them the only consumer contestant pairing in the show – while the rest of the consumer contestants were partnered with the celebrity All-Stars.
Sadly, however, the Durbanville local who had his eyes set on the Tropika Island of Treasure grand prize has been eliminated during episode four of the reality game show.
Liardus Nel (24) grew up in a very sporty family. From a young age he was playing rugby and cricket but grew fond of swimming.
That is where he learned to compete, training hours every day swimming and challenging himself. “Currently, I just love being active, learning new skills, for example callisthenics and yoga. Sounds random, but I still want to learn how to split.”
Everyone is strong in their own way
Referring to the other participants on the show, Nel said everyone is strong in their way.
“Brendan Peyper is physically and also mentally a monster. Karlien van Jaarsveld does not give up and is such a good team player and the person you want to surround yourself with. It is difficult to say who your competition is because anyone can take it. I have a very good bond with Maurice Paige. I love his energy and in a game like this he is someone I trust 100%.”
Strategically Nel also had a good relationship with Jonathon Boynton-Lee. “Such a real guy and I appreciate that.”
The 24-year-old said this journey has been incredible. “I am extremely grateful and just want to make the best of this opportunity.”
Nel, who thought he had what it takes to get the grand prize because he is a very driven person, especially in a team dynamic, continues to say there is nothing he would have done differently. “I enjoyed this adventure. It was just not our day to win. You just have to take it on the chin because you are competing against very good competitors. Maybe I would have studied up more about St Lucia.”
Biggest highlights
He describes his biggest highlights with two things: The first is doing the challenges. “I really enjoyed competing and trying things I have never done.” And the second is the people. “Not just talking about the competitors but also everyone behind the scenes too. You become a small family and I am grateful for them.”
According to Nel, what he learned from this show is not to take life so seriously. “Go on adventures, do things that frighten you and have fun.”
When asked if he would be seen on television again, Nel answered that there is nothing in the pipeline for the near future but concluded: “I am open to adventures. I am excited to see what the future brings.”
Tropika Island of Treasure is a fun-filled All-Star season where 18 lucky consumer contestants will battle it out for a chance to compete with the celebrities for the grand prize of their share of R1 million. Season 10 of this show started on 17 September.
The show airs on Saturdays from 18:30 to 19:30 on SABC 3.
