What inspired you to start riding Enduro?
I began riding mountain bikes when I was in my mid twenties (around 2003) and working in the Sabie Sands Reserve as a chiropractor. I needed to do something to stay fit and feed my need for adventure. I borrowed a bike that was miles too big for me and started riding in the buffer zone between the reserve and the outside community. I loved blazing my own trails, along with the cattle. From then on, every leg of my table had a tube under it, trying to get the glue to stick because I got punctures every time I rode and tubeless wasn't a thing then. I continued to ride marathon-type riding (although secretly I loved the fast downs), until lockdown. During that time, I came across "Ride Like A Girl'. Victoria had put up a series on garden mountain bike skills. My children and I started practicing skills in the garden. Once we were allowed to roam the trails again, my son Angus decided he wanted to ride like a maniac and I literally started enduro to follow him and make sure he didn't get lost.
What's your favorite type of terrain to ride on?
I love rocks. The riding in Nelspruit is amazing. I get a little scared in Cascades but a few runs and I am as happy as Larry.
What's the most challenging trail you've ever ridden?
So many of our local trails are challenging but when you ride them a few times, they all are do-able. The most petrified I've ever been is on Debt Collector in Nelspruit... and then my first time down Turbo Cabbage in Cascades.
What's your go-to bike brand and model?
Pyga for the win! I love my bike and I love the Pyga crew.
How often do you get out on the trails?
I have had a ridiculously busy year this year and so I am lucky to get out there once a week. Last year was a goodie and I rode on the trails at least three times a week. 2025 will be back to more riding!
Do you prefer solo rides or group outings?
I love both. The enduro crew are such an amazing bunch. I have made wonderful friends and I love riding with them. Solo rides are indulgent - they allow me to just session the things I need to work on without the pressure of an audience. Honestly, my best ever is just to go for a quick ride with Angus (my son) - he is so much better than me and so I get to learn from him when we ride together.
What's your favorite post-ride snack or meal?
I'm a bit useless with food but I can tell you that I love a scrambled egg on sourdough from Giba Graze after my ride. I am also partial to chocolate melk.
Have you ever had any major crashes or injuries?
I am lucky to have never broken a bone. I did have a very hard fall on Debt Collector in 2022. I was racing for Champs and hit the ground on a rock garden like a sack of potatoes and I think I can still feel some of the bruises. I had a crazy experience at the beginning of this year - I was riding down Flow Trail in Giba and came upon a massive black mamba while I was going very fast. I made a hasty decision to try and bunny hop it because I would have been on top of it if I had tried to brake. As I passed the snake, it alarmed and turned and hit my back wheel. I had a very large black mamba caught between my spokes! Needless to say, I was very grateful for riding flats as I launched myself over my handle bars. That was a very lucky day.
How do you prepare for a long ride or race?
Enduro is a little different. Fitness is good to have and for that I would ideally do interval training in a studio. Before a race, I try to practice features that I know are coming up (such as drops, corners, etc). Best case is I go and actually practice the runs beforehand.
Do you have a favorite riding buddy or mentor?
Angus, my son, is my favourite riding buddy. We don't ride together often because he is 15 and not so keen on his mommy. We have a riding group called The Klunkers - they are so cool to ride with.
How do you stay hydrated and fueled during a ride?
Nutritional science is not part of this answer! I honestly ride with water and if it is extra hot, I will use Match Day or Enduren. My snacks are jelly snakes from Woolies (I share all of them except the yellow ones), and droe wors.
What's the best part about Enduro for you?
I love the challenge, and that "On top of the world" feeling when I do something I couldn't do before. I love that the same trail is ever-changing. I love the people. And I love the fact that there is no "perfect" run - it can always be better.
How do you choose which trails to ride?
If I have time, I go off to Cascades or Karkloof. Luckily, Giba is on my doorstep so I am spoiled for choice. I love all the trails we have access to but I will always choose gravity.
Have you ever done any professional or competitive racing?
No. I'm a professional mom.
What's the most important piece of gear or equipment for you?
It's all so important. My bike is my bestie but I couldn't ride it without my helmet.
How do you maintain and care for your bike?
Angus is a phenomenal bike washer. He very kindly washes my bike often. I try to make sure it is kept clean and lubed. Andre from AP Cyclery is an expert and keeps my bike running.
What's the longest ride you've ever done?
One a road bike - 180km during Iron Man. On a mountain bike - 100km.