Visually impaired triathlete optimistic about competing in Commonwealth Games

Gavin Kilpatrick, who has been steadily working hard towards qualifying for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, is waiting for his outcome on whether he will be going overseas in July.

The Mayberry Park visually impaired triathlete will know by the end of April whether he will form part of a squad that will be representing the country.

He recently took part in a triathlon race in Gqeberha alongside his guide Casper Moodie, which may make him eligible for selection for the Commonwealth Games.

Blind sportsman Gavin has competed in several events both locally and internationally in his quest to qualify for the Games.

“I have done everything I could do to qualify, from racing overseas and to when I almost drowned in Portugal. It’s nice to see that after two years of Covid-19, things are now starting to open up again and athletes can compete,” he said.

Preparation

Gavin has been training hard.

“Events preparation included participation in the Gauteng road race championships as well as South African National Cycling Championships held in Graskop. My pilot Roberto Gnudi from Panda Sportswear and I finished on the top step of the podium of all the disability categories,” he said.

He also finished second overall in the 116km Dischem Ride for Sight and in 13th place in the Cape Town Cycle Tour.

Together with his trusty triathlon guide Moodie, they later completed the South African National Triathlon Championships.

“Following selection, the team has a little less than four months to complete preparations. So if you see them out on our roads please hoot in support of these inspirational individuals,” explained Gavin.

He reiterated that his journey is not for personal glory, but to encourage people to take on challenges they never thought were possible.

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