PHOTO: Andrew
Mc Fadden
WHEN one door closes, another one opens. This was the mind-set of 17-year-old Brian Sclanders when discovering a hidden passion for cycling after suffering a knee injury during a rugby game in 2010.
To rehabilitate his injured knee, Brian began cycling in 2011 and went on to take part in local races. He later joined the Russell White Academy and, together with his father, Oliver, they took to the track for many challenging races.
Quickly making his way to the top, Brian jumped from local to national level in three years and took part in the South African Marathon Championships this year, taking 23rd place.
He also entered the local Bell Big 5 Series with his team, a major achievement.
Brian has taken part in triathlons and duathlons, including the South African duathlon Champs, taking 17th place in the U18 division in 2013, and 13th place in the U18 division in 2014. His hope is to compete in a national triathlon in the near future.
He has also taken his cycling across the country by travelling to both Cape Town and Mpumalanga.
With great support from friends, family and school peers, Brian has also received his half-colours for cycling at Glenwood High School.
After the recent loss of his beloved sister, Ashley, Brian acknowledged her undying support and in her memory, his racing kit carries an #iRide4Ashley logo.
When they reached the end of the Dusi2c, Brian and his father were welcomed by a banner with the words ‘Brian and Oliver for Ashley’, always reminding them of her never ending support.
‘There will always be one empty seat in the car and one less supporter on the side, but we know she will always be there supporting us,’ said Brian.
