An exciting feat for Beaulieu College learner
KYALAMI – Equestrian star Arina Niyaki switched her riding saddle for a bicycle.
Equestrian star Arina Niyaki (16) has outdone herself by taking a podium finish at South Africa’s biggest cycling event even though five months ago she did not even own a bicycle.
The Kyalami resident already has an impressive equestrian résumé and last year won her category at the South African National Equestrian Schools Association (Sanesa) Eventing Nationals for the third year in a row. She is also known for a successful figure skating career when she was younger, which took her all the way to nationals.
But this year Arina plans to try out other sports, including triathlon, and entered the Cape Town Cycle Tour. There, she finished the 109km in just 3:45:47 to finish in third place in the U19 division.
“I really was not expecting a podium finish, but was aiming to finish the race in under four hours,” Arina said afterwards.
ALSO READ: Kyalami Equestrian Park yet again to host the greatest showjumping extravaganza, SA Derby
“I didn’t think I would manage, and was realistically looking closer to a 4:30 finish. I haven’t been training long, and haven’t been training cycle specific as I am a triathlete in training.”
In fact, Arina has only been cycling seriously for five months under coach Matthew Franzsen from Pure Symmetry Multisport.
“I definitely plan on doing the Cape Town Cycle Tour again next year. The race was very well planned, with a lot of amazing sponsors, and volunteers who spent many hours putting the event together and making it such an great experience.”
Arina’s team domestique, Cobus Wessels helped her time her snack breaks, blocked the wind for her and motivated her. “I am currently a triathlete in training, and hope to do some big races in future. I have done one sprint race so far, and look forward to competing again later in the year.”
Arina is fortunate to be able to train in her pool at home and she has an indoor bike trainer so she will keep fit during the lockdown.
“I’m very grateful for my amazing parents, who have always supported me throughout my training,” Arina concluded.
Related articles:
