IN a bid to take her triathlon career to the next level, Zimbabwe's elite athlete Andie Kuipers is making a move to Australia.
The decision comes after a year of intense training and competition, which saw Kuipers defer her exams to focus on qualifying for the Paris Summer Olympics.
Although she did not qualify for the Olympics, Kuipers says the experience taught her valuable lessons about what it takes to compete at the highest level.
"I learned that to be at my best, I need to leave no stone unturned and have a supportive team around me," Kuipers told Standardsport.
"Triathlon is an individual sport, but it really takes a team to achieve your best."
Kuipers believes that surrounding herself with like-minded individuals and a coaching team in Australia will help her elevate her game.
"I truly believe in the concept that you are the average of who you surround yourself with," she said.
"So, I can only improve if I'm surrounded by other great athletes and people."
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Bulls to charge into Zimbabwe gold stocks
- Ndiraya concerned as goals dry up
- Letters: How solar power is transforming African farms
Keep Reading
With her degree in BSc Psychology now complete, Kuipers is shifting her focus to triathlon full-time. She plans to work part-time in Australia to balance her career inside and outside of sports.
"Finding balance is key for me this year," she said.
"I want to navigate the best way to balance my career and my triathlon goals, which are equally important to me."
Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup Troutbeck, which will feature a strong Zimbabwean contingent in the junior categories. The event has attracted a range of sponsors, including Bonaqua, Troutbeck Resort, CFAO, IGO, Ecocash, Simbisa Brands, MCM Legal, and Rooney's.
Barry Otieno, senior marketing manager for Zimbabwe and Malawi at Coca-Cola, acknowledged the support of their co-sponsors.
"We are thrilled to partner again with Bonaqua as the official hydration partner for the Africa Triathlon Cup," said Otieno.
"Our dedication to quality hydration aligns perfectly with the spirit of triathlon, where endurance and performance are essential."
Otieno expressed his gratitude to the event's sponsors, saying, "This event has helped us create a platform for sporting excellence and engagement. We're proud to be part of it."
