In a beautiful twist of fate, South Africa’s dynamic athletic duo, Elroy Gelant and Tamzin Thomas, are set to take their relationship to the next level after Gelant popped the question during a surprise proposal on 12 November 2024. What was initially meant to be a celebration of Tamzin’s graduation in Human Movement Science turned into one of the most memorable moments of their eight-year romance.
The couple, both renowned athletes, were enjoying what they thought would be a quiet night out to mark Tamzin’s academic achievement at NWU, Potchefstroom Campus, but Elroy had much bigger plans in store. Despite the initial confusion and a few venue changes, the evening culminated in a heartfelt proposal at Julia’s Eatalian Restaurant in Potchefstroom — an unforgettable moment that left Tamzin both surprised and overjoyed.
“Honestly, I was just expecting a celebration of my graduation,” Tamzin said, reflecting on the whirlwind of emotions she felt when Elroy dropped to one knee. “I had no idea Elroy was planning this. When he asked me to marry him, I was speechless. It took me a few moments to process, but of course, I said yes!”
Elroy, who had spent months meticulously planning the surprise, was just as emotional. “It was a bit of a rollercoaster,” he admitted. “I had the perfect plan, but when we found out the restaurant was fully booked, I had to make some quick changes. The proposal had to be perfect, though, so I worked with the photographer and asked a new waiter to help with the timing. It was all worth it when I saw the look on Tamzin’s face.”
The couple first met in Cape Town when Elroy was there to compete in a Distance Marathon. Elroy, who hails from George in the Western Cape, was immediately struck by Tamzin’s athleticism and beauty. It wasn’t long before he used his now-famous pick-up line to break the ice: “Sprinters should work more at Distance Events.”
“I was caught off guard by that line, but I liked how forward he was,” Tamzin laughs. “At first, I didn’t really understand what he meant, but it became clear he was trying to get my attention. And well, it worked!”
Their connection was instant, and the two quickly became inseparable. Since then, their relationship has flourished, both personally and professionally. Elroy, a Paris 2024 Olympic long-distance runner, clinched a personal best time and won both the national marathon and half-marathon titles this year, while Tamzin, a national-level sprinter, continues to make waves in South African athletics.
Their shared passion for sport has only strengthened their bond, but it’s the support they give each other off the track that truly stands out. Tamzin spoke warmly about the influence their families have had on their relationship. “I’ve always been fond of Elroy’s family,” she said. “The way they support each other, and the way they carry themselves, has been a huge inspiration to me. My own family is very supportive, but through Elroy, I’ve learned so much about what it means to love and support someone.” Furthermore, she share sentiments, calling their families “role models” for the couple’s own journey ahead. “Our families are examples of positive marriages, and that’s something we both value deeply,” she said.
With their shared athletic careers and deep love for one another, Elroy and Tamzin are more than just a couple; they are a power team. As their engagement marks the beginning of a new chapter, fans and friends alike are eagerly anticipating the next big step in their journey together.
In the coming months, the couple plans to celebrate their engagement with close family and friends, and as for the wedding date? That’s still to be determined, but one thing is clear — Elroy and Tamzin Gelant’s future is bright, both on and off the track.
“We’ve always known we were meant for each other,” Tamzin said, gazing at her fiancé with a smile. “Now, we get to spend the rest of our lives together, supporting each other in everything we do. I couldn’t be more excited.”
