Rynfield resident places first in Africa for rowing
Lodge completed this competition at his normal day-to-day gym, Trinergy, in Benoni.
Rynfield resident Gary Lodge (56) recently took part in the 2021 World Rowing Virtual Indoor Championships, placing first in South Africa and Africa, as well as fourth in the world.
He took part in the masters lightweight 55 to 59 years category in the 2km event.
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“This is a yearly event, usually taking place in selected venues around the world but this year it was all done virtually due to Covid-19,” he explained.
“I did well in the Africa qualification champs, which took place last year November, to compete against the best in the world.”
In the world championships, he had to complete a 2km time trial on a concept two rowing machine. Lodge completed this competition at his gym, Trinergy, in Benoni.
“Although you don’t win any trophies or medals, the event was great and well organised,” he said.
“This was my first international event, and I enjoyed taking part in this competition at Trinergy because it is an excellent gym.”
The competition was live-streamed on YouTube, run by concept2 and World Rowing.
Lodge was born and attended school in Zimbabwe where he played water polo, rugby and hockey.
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“I then attended Pietermaritzburg University where I played rugby and water polo. I also competed for the Old Dunstonian Rowing Club at the Homestead Dam.”
Lodge trains five times a week on the rowing machine with three sessions of gym work and no diet change.
“Always keep active Benoni,” he said.
“Set realistic goals and always keep going with no excuses. Thank you to my support and technical team as well as to Trinergy for the use of their facilities. I will be taking part in the next event.”
