Kyalami triathlete shares she was not athletic as a child and never anticipated finding joy in sports
Transitioning from someone who couldn’t bike or run more than 3km, Sutherns believes everyone’s potential is greater than they realise after coming first in the Iron Man Championship 18-24 age group women’s category.
Kyalami-based triathlete Jessica Sutherns (23) achieved an impressive milestone by securing first place in the women’s age group 18-24 category at the Isuzu Iron Man South Africa Championship held in Port Elizabeth.
This remarkable victory qualifies her for the World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.
Reflecting on her journey, Sutherns shared that she was not athletic as a child and never anticipated enjoying sports.
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“Being the first woman in my age group means a lot to me, especially since this was my first full Ironman. It has shown me that we are all capable of whatever we set our minds to—no matter the size of the goal,” she remarked.
Sutherns has come to understand the concept of runner’s high firsthand. “Running is tough for beginners, but the satisfaction it brings is worth every struggle,” she said, highlighting that she currently enjoyed running as a side activity while focusing on her studies.
Training has provided her with a much-needed escape from the pressures of academic life. “Waking up at four and going to bed at nine makes social plans tough,” she confessed, but noted that maintaining a solid routine had made her training manageable.
In the weeks leading up to the Ironman, Sutherns’ regimen was intense, often featuring five- to six-hour rides paired with three-hour runs on weekends. “I faced setbacks along the way, but they taught me to appreciate the journey even more.”
On race day, she faced challenging conditions with rough winds and waves. “It was a hard day, and many times I thought about giving up. I wore a hairband with Philippians 4:7-8 written on it, which kept me going. It is special to me because it was also my race number.”
Sutherns expressed excitement about potentially returning to Port Elizabeth next year, as she values the supportive triathlon community.
Transitioning from someone who could not bike or run more than 3km, she believes everyone’s potential is greater than they realise. “Pushing through tough times offers an unmatched sense of satisfaction. With the right mindset, you can achieve your goals, even when motivation wanes. Remember to enjoy the journey because that is what makes it worthwhile.”
Sutherns emphasised the importance of women supporting one another in sports, drawing inspiration from figures such as her mother and aspiring to do the same for others.
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