“Both abundance and lack exist simultaneously in our lives, as parallel realities. It is always our conscious choice which secret garden we will tend … when we choose not to focus on what is missing from our lives but are grateful for the abundance that’s present… the wasteland of illusion falls away and we experience Heaven on earth.” – – Sarah Ban Breathnach

Ironman athletes show soft side

2010/11/05 - As if next year’s Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa isn’t enough of a challenge, a couple of rookie competitors have upped the ante by doing it for charity.

Kristen Britz and Lindy Taverner of Port Elizabeth have joined forces with adventure lifestyle business LIFESTRUCK (www.lifestruck.co.za) to raise funds for Zanethemba Baby Haven – a place of safety for abandoned, orphaned, neglected and abused children.

Their goal is to sign up over 100 like-minded triathletes who will compete in eye-catching sponsored race gear, thereby drawing attention to the cause.

According to Britz, the objective is to present a win-win scenario for the athletes, sponsors and children alike. “The benefits for the athletes include a sense of purpose and the support that goes with being part of a team at such a gruelling individual event.”

Lifestruck has brought its sponsors on board, so competitors will also receive discounts from brands such as Nike, Specialized, Cebe, Imazine Suunto and 32Gi.

In return, participating athletes will be asked to raise funds individually for Zanethemba. The organisers have made the task easier by setting up an SMS donation line and are also in the process of developing a comprehensive website (www.70point3.co.za).

“There will be product prizes from our sponsors for the top three fundraisers,” said Britz.

The 2010 Ironman 70.3 attracted over 1 500 participants and thousands of spectators lined the streets of East London, providing corporate sponsors with extensive brand exposure on the day.

Donations to the cause can be made through the Lifestruck website (powered by BackaBuddy) linking individual champions to Zanethemba or via SMS To donate R10 to Zanethemba Baby Haven, simply SMS “TRI” and the name of your participating athlete to 38021.

For more information, send an e-mail to kristen@70point3.co.za. Or go to www.lifestruck.co.za

Lifestruck, Kristen Britz & Lindy Taverner