Triathlons with Dylan Nortjé

by Caitlyn Walsh | Feb 24, 2020 | Sports

PDBY spoke to Dylan Nortjé, a successful Tuks-Triathlete, about his upcoming , and the sport in general.

For those who don’t know, what does a triathlon entail, in detail?

So a triathlon is a multisport consisting of swimming, biking and running. The swimming section is normally done in either the sea, a dam or a harbour. Directly after, we jump [onto] our bikes and do what is called criterium, which are like short fast technical laps, usually through the streets of the city. Lastly, the run consists of laps similar to the biking laps.

How much do you train in a week for your triathlons?

I train between 20 to 30 hours a week, depending on where we are in the season.

What is your biggest achievement in terms of competing?

I completed two U/23 South African Championships in 2017 and in 2019 [respectively].

What made you begin triathlons in the first place?

I was doing all three of the sports individually at school, then I partook in a race in Cape Town and I haven’t stopped since then.

What is your biggest goal in terms of this sport?

The Olympic Championships would be pretty cool to compete in!

Who is your biggest role model and why?

Javier Gómez, an Olympic silver medallist, and a five-time world champion. He is the most genuine guy, super humble and not boastful about his success.

When is your next race set to begin and what would you like to achieve?

The next race is the SA Championships in Durban on 22 March. I would like an overall podium, and to win the u/23 championship for the last time.

What advice would you give to other triathletes?

I would say have patience, trust your coach, and listen to your body because more is not always better.

What is one thing you wish you had known when beginning this sport?

How much you need to pack onto your bike, and everything needed in terms of clothing.

Nortjé serves as an inspiration for all future triathletes, and sheds a light on the nature of triathlons in South Africa.

 

Images: Provided

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