Blind athlete and BSG Brand Ambassador Hein Wagner will take on the Spec Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa (also known as the Half Ironman) in East London this weekend. This is part of Hein’s journey to compete in the 2012 Kona World Championships and the Paralympics in London later this year.
Having had a successful 2011, Hein is in great form to compete. In August last year, Hein and his racing partner Gerrie Olivier competed in the gruelling Ironman 70.3 held in Santa Catarina, Brazil. Hein and Gerrie successfully completed the race in a time of 5 hours and 37 minutes. Hein and either Gerrie or Alwyn de Kock, another racing partner, competed in five events in the 2011 BSG Energade TriSeries as preparation for their Ironman events this year.
Hein has successfully overcome the many unique obstacles of competing in an Ironman event as a blind athlete, through countless hours of training and preparation with Gerrie. Together they have formed a strong partnership based on trust that has enabled them to perfect their team racing skills. This racing duo will compete in all three legs of the Ironman race, connected by a cord during the running and swimming legs to provide Hein with a sense of direction while on the route.
BSG is proud to support Hein and help make his dream a reality through sponsorship of the tandem bikes, racing gear and travel logistics. BSG’s continued commitment and support are the backbone of the team’s success, and we wish Hein every success this weekend.
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