Luke Spencer’s improvement was on display when he delivered an exciting performance in the junior men’s race at the African Triathlon Cup Ebotse at CR Swart Dam on March 8.

Representing Central Gauteng Triathlon (CGT), Spencer finished ninth in 01:05:32. Namibian triathlete Nathan Chase won the event in 58:33, with South Africa’s Ryan Viviers (59:17) and Nicholas Horne (59:21) finishing second and third respectively.

After a tough swim leg, where the Pinnacle College Rynfield alumnus covered the 750m course in 12:19 to reach the shore in 13th place, Spencer made inroads on the bike. He climbed to ninth after completing the four laps of the 10km course in 32:48.

On the run, a side stitch during the second loop threatened to derail his charge, but he managed to hold his position, covering the 5km distance in 18:43 to secure ninth overall.

Reflecting on his race, Spencer said he had expected the swim to be challenging due to the water conditions but was pleased with his performance on the bike and run.

“I knew the swim was going to be tough because it was very choppy. I managed to keep a good rhythm and stay somewhat close to the group. Then I got onto the bike and the course suited me. There were hills and long straights, so I made up a lot of positions.

“I got onto the run and knew I had to give it my all. I went strong in the first lap, but in the second lap I had a bad stitch. That’s something we need to work on with the nutrition, but overall I’m happy with the performance,” said the Benoni athlete.

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While he took several positives from the race, the Stellenbosch University first-year student acknowledged that improving his swim remains a priority.

“I think it’s important to improve my swim speed to get closer to the front group. It will make it much easier to find people with strength on the bike. Then I’ll be able to stay with them and hopefully have a strong run.”

Although his transition to life in Stellenbosch has been challenging — joining a new training group and working with a new coach — seeing familiar faces such as fellow elite juniors Anthony Clayton and Oliver Delport has helped him adapt to life among the Maties.

“Anthony, who is one of the top guys in Africa, and Oliver train in Stellenbosch. I’ve received quite a few tips and bits of advice from them. Although I’m with a different coach, their coach still assists me in a way, so I’ve definitely learned new techniques,” Spencer said.

The Central Gauteng athlete also expressed gratitude to coach Richard O’Donoghue, who continues to support him despite Spencer now training under a new coach, as well as to his parents, Mark and Tanja, for their unwavering support.

“They’re the only reason I’m here. I really appreciate them.”

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