I was the top lady cyclist in SA from 1985 to 1990. I won the Argus Cycle Tour for 5 consecutive years as well as the SA Championships. I was invited to race overseas but due to Apartheid I was unable to compete Internationally. I then had 2 children (Deon, now 17 and Margi now 16) and set up 3 physiotherapy practices. I started cycling again in 2003 at the age of 41! It took a good few months and I was mixing it with the top elite cyclists of SA - I did actually beat every one of them on different occasions! Due to my age I was overlooked to be included in an elite team. Since it was one of my dreams to compete Internationally I competed at St Johann at the Master World Champs in 2005, 2006 and 2008!

I love cycling, it keeps feeling young and healthy and I get to meet so many amazing people along the way. I am so grateful for all the opportunities it has given me.
Cathy Carstens