Nienaber, Visser set to make waves in the mixed team category of AfricanX
Always a contender in the women’s team category, well known Stellenbosch based trail runner Chantel Nienaber has signed up for a new challenge at AfricanX, taking place at the Houw Hoek Hotel the weekend of 26 – 28 March 2021, by teaming up with event newcomer and fellow Stellenbosch resident Chris Visser.
After six years of racing in the women’s team category, Nienaber is excited to make her debut in the mixed team category.
“I have always run AfricanX with women,” says Nienaber. “Initially I teamed up with Kerry-Jade Sillifant in 2013, and then with Katya (Soggot) thereafter. I enjoy the team dynamic of AfricanX and the fact that it takes place over three days. I’ve made many trail running friends at the event over the years. The organisers know how to host a professional event, while still adding a personal touch. From great food, to a fantastic vibe – trail runners really are waited on hand and foot.”
“It is very important that you choose the right partner,” continues Nienaber. “At some stage over those 90km’s each of you are going to go into that deep dark place. Knowing that your teammate is in your corner and is super supportive is crucial. I am very excited to team up with Chris. With his conditioning and discipline, he can certainly pull off a multi-day event and he is fast. We have a goal in mind and are determined to achieve it. Stepping onto the podium in the Open mixed team category with Chris will be awesome.”
“I’ve either been a supporter or a spectator at AfricanX, but I have always felt that this was a “must-do” event,” says Visser. “I have competed in other similar events and have found them to be extremely well organised with that personal touch. I am very excited to finally be lining up for AfricanX and am just as excited to team up with Chantel. She has been incredibly helpful in guiding me in my trail training since I started a few years ago. It is great to run with someone who is a true ambassador for the sport and she also supports a number of charities.”
“The fact that we communicate well will definitely be one of our team strengths,” confirms Visser. “We also have a good understanding of each other’s strengths and abilities. I will bring the jokes, while Chantel gives direction. I am excited to hear that the event has returned to its home at the Houw Hoek Hotel. It’s going to be epic to spend three days out on the trails with some amazing people. I cannot wait to kick-off the trail season with a bang at AfricanX.”
Other mixed teams to look out for will be 2018 champions Daneil Feldmann and Davide Del Fante, husband and wife duo Nico and Natalie Sterk, while Comrades Marathon Champion (2016) Charne Bosman should also not be underestimated. Bosman will team up with fellow Murray & Roberts athlete, Karel Burger.
The AfricanX Trailrun proudly supports The Timothy James Harlow Foundation (TJHF), a non-profit organisation that searches for opportunities to make a difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Runners can support the TJHF by making a donation when entering the AfricanX Trailrun online. This year AfricanX entrants have the opportunity to get more involved by suggesting a candidate and/or cause that they’d like the TJHF to support.
