Reigning Totalsports Xterra Pezula ladies champion, Carla van Huyssteen successfully defended her title in an impressive finishing time of 1 hour, 55 minutes and 53 seconds.
“I’m really in a happy space right now, living the dream,” said Hugo. “I am currently at the end of a racing block and today’s race hurt a lot. It literally felt like I was hanging on by a few strings, but I am having the greatest year and it’s mainly because of the people that are here today. I am really thankful to Puma. They’ve been with me the longest and actually started sponsoring me before the start of my professional career. Having them here as the official sponsor of Xterra, I am happy to do this for them. I am also happy to have won all three Totalsports Xterra SA events this year.” Hugo will take on Xterra Sweden, before returning home for a well-deserved rest.
Stuart Marais claimed the second spot on the podium, followed by Bradley Weiss in third place.
According to Van Huyssteen, the route was tough, but amazing. “It’s definitely a lot tougher on Big5 legs, but this is such a cool route. You’re kept on your toes at all times. It’s a hard run, a hard bike, a hard run and then you’re done. Coming back as the defending champion, you’re always worried. You know what to expect, you know what pain lies ahead, but then crossing the finish line first is always a great feeling.”
Hanlie Booyens came in second, while Esther Lategan finished third in the ladies race.
Michael Lord claimed victory in the men’s Totalsports Xterra Lite, completing the course in 55 minutes and 56 seconds. Harrie Malan came in second, while Eben Kruger finished third.
Jessica Alcock was the lady to beat in the Xterra Lite, completing the course in 1 hour, 8 minutes and 7 seconds. Liandi van der Westhuizen came in second and Famke Allan finished third.
Reigning Totalsports Xterra South Africa champion, Dan Hugo celebrated a hat-trick Xterra South Africa victory on Thursday, completing the Totalsports Xterra Full Pezula in 1 hour, 32 minutes and 42 seconds. Photo: Cherie Vale/Newsport Media.
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