Triathlete on the rise
Samantha Summerscale is a professional triathlete focusing on swimming, running and cycling and is currently preparing herself for the 2020 Olympics.
Fairland resident Samantha Summerscales (22) is fast becoming a successful South African triathlete.
“I have always been a sporty person, taking part in diverse running marathons for many years,” she said. “I decided to do the triathlons because I wanted to challenge myself and do more.” Triathlons consist of three events: running, swimming and cycling.
Summerscales’ busy schedule and intensive training leave little time for much else and has forced her to become intensely focused.
She is currently preparing for the South Africa half Ironman triathlon taking place in January next year.
She will also take part in the Triathlon World Championship in Spain and China next year.
Keeping healthy is very important to Summerscales. “I have to be strict with my diet. I stay off the heavy carbohydrates and only eat potatoes and brown rice. I also take in less sugar and have lots of protein.”
When Summerscales is not training she is studying at UJ, working as an au pair and spending time with her family.
“Anyone can participate if they put their minds to it, keep healthy and have passion for the sport. Start with the small races and take it from there,” Summerscale advised.
