PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - The Outsiders Octafit fitness competition, hosted by the Rhone Hill Polo Club in Plettenberg Bay on Saturday 2 November, saw its measure of sweat, cheers, and high-fives!
The Octafit champs, organised by Outsiders Fitness, a community-focused gym founded in January 2021 by the Van Jaarsveld family, Gert, Marianne and Justin, is a unique opportunity to test limits, foster camaraderie, and support a great cause.
Saturday took off with a bang at 8am with entrants (teams of two) starting every 30 minutes, having to complete activities at eight movement stations, each followed by a run around the course.
'It's tough, it's hot'
In all 114 participants entered the fun and pro divisions, all serious (and some not so serious) about showcasing their fitness prowess.
Louise Briers of Twigzz, who won the female pro event along with Tyla, said the event was "fantastic".
"It's tough, it's hot - you have to hydrate, hydrate and more hydrate. I can't wait for my first sip after the exercises," said Briers, applauding the spirit of all the participants in the event.
"But it's great fun," she said.
'Empowering experience'
Says organiser Marianne van Jaarsveld: "Octafit is more than just a fitness competition - it's an empowering experience designed to challenge participants both physically and mentally, while fostering a supportive and energetic community.
"The event is structured to bring people together, allowing teams of two to compete in dynamic, thoughtfully designed workouts that test various skills, from agility and strength to coordination and mental toughness."
Local sponsors
This year, the Octafit champs were fuelled by the overwhelming support of many local sponsors, including the Knysna-Plett Herald, each of whom contributed to making the event a success.
"The enthusiasm and generosity from our 50 sponsors that either sponsored a lane or a prize for our winners, truly reflect the power of our community, and we're deeply grateful for every contribution. We couldn't have done it without them," she said.
Giving back
The Octafit champs also champion community support and giving back. For the 2024 event, participants were encouraged to bring a bag of dog food to donate to Muddy Pooches, a local charity that supports under-resourced communities by providing food, healthcare, and education for children and animals alike.
"At its core, Octafit is about much more than winning; it's about showing up, challenging yourself, and celebrating every effort in an inclusive, high-energy environment," said Marianne.
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