Reiger Park residents David Foster and Reginald Ayer say qualifying for the Deadly Dozen World Championships in London is about far more than personal achievement.

The duo have spent the past five years preparing for the demanding hybrid fitness race, which combines a 5km run with 12 gruelling strength and endurance obstacles, including burpees, lunges and farmer’s carries.

They will represent South Africa at the National Sports Centre in Crystal Palace in September after qualifying in the men’s 40-44 age category, but they believe their greatest victory would be inspiring young people in their community to dream beyond the social challenges they face.

Growing up in Reiger Park, Foster said they had seen first-hand the effects of unemployment, poverty, gangsterism and substance abuse. While those issues often dominate headlines, he believes there is another side to the township that deserves recognition.

“There is also a good story to tell out of Reiger Park,” said Foster.

“We’ve produced doctors, lawyers and sports stars over the years. We want to change the narrative and show young people that where you come from does not determine where you can go.”

Foster admitted the qualification came as a surprise but said it was also validation for years of sacrifice.

“It was a great achievement because of the hard work and sacrifice. Halfway through the race, your body wants to give up, but your mind has to take over. Mentally, physically and spiritually, this qualification means everything to our families and us.”

Ayer, a personal trainer for more than a decade, described hearing they had qualified for London as one of the proudest moments of his life.

“I was stunned for about 20 seconds,” he said.

“Then I realised this was well deserved. There were so many times when I wanted to give up, when life became difficult, but resilience carried me through. This opportunity proves that if you stay disciplined and keep working, good things eventually happen.”

Both men hope their journey encourages not only young people but also adults to embrace healthier lifestyles.

“We want people to understand that your only competition is the person you see in the mirror,” said Ayer. “Fitness is not just about competing. It’s about living better physically and mentally.”

Also Read: Reggie Ayer powers Boksburg’s fitness revival with December bootcamp

Their vision stretches well beyond the championships.

After returning from London, Foster and Ayer plan to expand community fitness boot camps in Reiger Park, creating safe spaces where children, teenagers and adults can exercise together while learning discipline, resilience and healthy living.

“We want to transform fitness into a lifestyle and a culture,” said Foster. “The dream is to build regular boot camps, but we’ll need equipment and support to make that happen. Going to London will give us knowledge and experience that we can bring back to our community.”

Before they can inspire others on the world stage, however, they face a significant obstacle.

The self-funded trip requires money for flights, accommodation, visas, competition entry fees, transport and meals, costs the pair cannot cover alone.

They are appealing to businesses, organisations and residents across Boksburg and Ekurhuleni to assist through sponsorships or donations.

“This is bigger than us,” Foster said.

“We’re not only carrying the South African flag; we’re carrying the hopes of a community. If we can get to London, we can come back and show the next generation that no dream is too big, no matter where you come from.”

To help, contact Foster on 073 638 2248 or [email protected] or Ayer on 073 404 1105 or [email protected] for more info.

Also Read: WATCH: The Real Boxing and Fitness Gym reopens in Bardene