“You’re a winner no matter what.” Meet the athletes smashing stereotypes

More and more people are trying to catch up with Rebecca Nyangaresi-Gatang’i. She’s a fitness fanatic who often participates in triathlons, despite only learning to swim and cycle a few years ago. In addition to these sporting events still being male-dominated, there are also misconceptions about people of colour which can hold many back. Nyangaresi-Gatang’i is leading the race to get more women involved in sport – and smashing stereotypes along the way.

In 2016, she began Ketsh Up with her friend Bianca Reichelt. Based in Port Elizabeth, the NPO encourages women from all walks of life to join them in taking up running, swimming, and cycling. “This fitness movement provides a counter-narrative about women of colour visibility in sport,” Nyangaresi-Gatang’i says. Offering beginners’ lessons, training sessions and coaching, they’re giving future triathletes a head start.

Over 100 women have since joined the club, which has no membership fees. “We are an inspired group who are determined to conquer our fears,” Nyangaresi-Gatang’i says. Beginning a new activity can be scary. But together, these women are pushing their limits and succeeding. “You’re a winner no matter what,” Nyangaresi-Gatang’i says.

Photographs by Zsports Events NPC were used in the creation of this film.