Biathlon is a family affair for Zoli de Kock (38) and her daughter Millay (8) who both won silver medals for North West at the recent SA Biathlon Championships held on Saturday, 1 April in Stellenbosch.

Zoli is a well-known sportswoman in Potch having competed and medaled in numerous biathlons, triathlons and Ironman races.

Winning a medal with her daughter by her side is definitely her most cherished highlight.

It was an absolute highlight to see how Millay experiences everything, with childlike innocence and excitement. Ever since I can remember, I have been passionate about all sports, and to see my child develop that same passion is precious,” stated Zoli.

North West took third place overall on the medal table with 43 athletes competing. In total, there were just under a thousand athletes from all over the country.

Here are the medal winners from Potch:

Girls u.8: Millay de Kock (silver)

Boys u.9: Frederich Liebenberg (silver)

Girls u.11: Jua Jonker (silver)

Senior ladies: Zoli De Kock (silver)

Athletes from elsewhere in North West:

Junior: Kayleigh Geel (bronze)

Senior Dylan Kruger (gold)

Master 60+ Tienie Swanepoel (bronze)

Biathlon in a nut shell:

Biathlon consists of a timed run and swim. The distances vary according to age group. Younger athletes run 400m on a track and swim 50m in an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Older athletes run 800m and swim 100m.

The concept is simple: You run as fast as possible, rest, and later that same day you swim as fast as possible. Times are then converted to a point system, which are added together to determine the winners. Biathlon is a fantastic sport for the whole family. Age groups start with under 9 all the way to 70 +

Anyone interested in Biathlon is welcome to contact North West Chairlady – Yolanda Kruger on 082 787 5496.