FOR Prestondale resident, Farryn-Jade Ahrens, being able to combine her passion for fitness and love of animals was an opportunity she could not miss out on. The former Chelsea Prep learner has decided to take on this year’s Ironman 70.3 challenge in June in Durban to raise funds and awareness for Phoenix Animal Care & Treatment (PACT), an NPO which was established in March 2012. The organisation is dedicated to providing care and medical treatment for animals in the Phoenix area.
Ahrens, who works at the Ridge Vet and Pet Spa, said she’s wanted to combine her two passions.
“I’ve always seen the adverts for Ironman on TV and it’s been something I wanted to try it. Last year I took part in a few local events called the TinMan triathlon and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I just wanted to do more. Glen Gore, who is a former SA triathlon champ, and also one of our clients at the vet, helped motivate me to take on this challenge for charity.
“He has been incredible so far, helping me with my training schedule and checking up on. I started training with him since the beginning of the year and the results have been phenomenal. I’ve improved a hundred per cent, I really wouldn’t be here without him,” she said.
Ahrens explained that working with PACT has made her realise how much the organisation does for animals.
“I’ve been working for three years for the Ridge Vet and I’ve seen firsthand the horrific cases Neeri (Naidoo), who is the founder of PACT, has to deal with. Often it’s through horrible neglect and ignorance. I am passionate about animals and I’m also a fan of training. I really wanted to challenge myself and I figured what better way to do that than dedicate my race to charity and do it for a good cause,” she said.
The event, which takes place on 18 June will be Ahrens’ first half Ironman.
“I’ve set myself the goal of bringing down PACT’s bill by half, which currently sits at R160 000 at the vet. Unfortunately their account has been put on hold and I want to change that. I’m really excited about the event and hopefully I’ll be able to make a huge difference,” she said.
- For more information or to help support the NPO visit www.phoenixanimalcare.org.za.
