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GARDEN ROUTE NEWS AND VIDEO – Eugene Botha, a 59-year-old accomplished athlete from Sedgefield, has been selected by Triathlon South Africa (TSA) to represent the country at the 2025 World Triathlon Duathlon Championships in Pontevedra, Spain, on June 20 and 21.
Unfortunately, TSA does not provide financial support for athletes, meaning Botha must cover all expenses on his own.
He estimates that he needs around R50,000 to make his dream of competing on the global stage a reality—a dream he has been working toward for years.
"It has always been my dream to compete internationally, and now, at 59, the opportunity is finally here," Botha says. "To make this happen, I’ve launched a BackaBuddy campaign to help cover the costs of flights, accommodation, food, transport in Spain, and the SA kit I need, as I can't afford it on my own."
Botha truly appreciates any support people can offer. "This could be my one chance to compete on the world stage, and I am incredibly grateful for any donations to help get me to Spain."
VIDEO - Eugene's Dream:
His journey into triathlon began in 2018 when he started participating in races. He completed his first 70.3 Ironman in East London in 2019, and later tackled the 70.3 Ironman in Mossel Bay in 2023. He also completed the Comrades Marathon in 2003 and the Two Oceans Marathon in 2024.
"When my family moved to the Garden Route, I joined the Eden Triathlon group. We competed in a variety of disciplines, and I started participating in triathlon and duathlon in 2023. I was selected for the South African Champs in July 2024, where I took first place in my age group."
So far, Botha has raised just over R16,000, but with only three months left to raise the remaining funds, time is running out.
To support Eugene in getting to Spain this June, you can donate to his BackaBuddy campaign by clicking here.
For more information or to reach out to him, you can contact Eugene directly at 082 847 0243.
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