Mogomotsi Mashigo's inspiring journey: From novice cyclist to triathlon champion

"At the time, I was going through one of my lowest periods and cycling became therapy for me. It kept me going," says Mogomotsi.

Joining Team Vitality

As Team Vitality Champion, he is part of four different cycling zones in Gauteng, including Centurion, Queenswood, East Rand, and the Cradle, and helps cyclists cross the finish line within their times at various races.

Mogomotsi had been cycling alone until he joined Vitality in 2018. "For the first time, I was in a group of likeminded people who love a healthy lifestyle. I found a group with a common purpose. It's not competitive, it's an encouraging and supportive environment."

He has cycled 18 Cape Argus races, 22 Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg races, 17 Amashova National Classic Cycle races, and others such as the Midvaal Fast One and Dis-Chem Ride for Sight.

Enjoying a variety of activities: running, cycling and swimming

"I'm a triathlete," he says. "I've run five Two Oceans and will be taking part in my sixth Comrades Marathon this year." He has also participated in the Legacy Ride4Hope, one of the Nelson Mandela Foundation's many initiatives to honour Madiba's legacy and transform lives. This year, they will be running from the Capture Site in Howick, KwaZulu-Natal to Qunu.

Mogomotsi says he started running in 2016 when his circle of friends challenged themselves to try something different. Added to that, he is also a swimmer. "I've done swimming, cycling, and running in one event. It was the annual Standard Bank 5150 Triathlon series, where you swim for 1.5km, then cycle for 40km and run 10km."

His cycling season is generally from August to April and then he picks up with training for the Comrades among other races on the calendar. "That's how I balance out the two sporting disciplines," he says. Running is technically a winter sport, but most runners practice throughout the year.

Training is part of his daily life and his family joins him

"I train from Tuesday to Thursday between 4pm and 6pm, and then either on Saturday or Sunday, depending on family commitments. In between I go to Virgin Active and do strength training and swim for about 30 or 45 minutes. Some days are strictly sauna days."

Even on rest days and vacations, Mogomotsi's dedication to fitness remains steadfast. "I take my running shoes on holidays," he says, highlighting his commitment to staying active even when he is away from home. And it's not just about personal fitness; it's also about instilling healthy habits in the next generation.

Three of his four children are also cyclists and take their bikes on holidays too. The younger ones, aged 8 and 11, have taken part in the 94.7 Kids Ride. Mogomotsi has also cycled the Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg with his 25-year-old son three times.

When it comes to diet, there's nothing he deprives himself of - it's everything in moderation. "Two beers or one glass of wine and I'm done. My alcohol tolerance is low," he laughs. "I love bacon and eggs for breakfast. I have fruit and carrots in my lunchbox and drink lots of liquids throughout the day - about 2 to 3 litres. I did try Banting and even switching dinner with breakfast, but it didn't work for me."

A love for cycling and encouraging others

Mogomotsi would encourage anyone thinking of cycling not to be discouraged by the misperception that it's expensive. "If you think about it, you buy a bike once and it will last you for at least five years, unlike running shoes that you have to replace after every race. I'm not saying cycling is better, but it is my preferred choice. When it comes to the body, you can run 10km and potentially twist an ankle but I can cycle 100km without any injury."