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Tiaan Pretorius on Big 5 debut

Knysna - Having competed in Ironman South Africa and the Absa Cape Town, EnduroPlus editor, Tiaan Pretorius is out to complete his maiden Big 5

You've competed in many grueling events like the Cape Epic and more, what made you decide to compete in the BIG 5 for the first time?

Tiaan: Following my first Ironman South Africa I decided to attempt my very first Knysna Big 5 in 2010, but unfortunately after the very first event which was the MTB event I picked up a ITB injury that sidelined me for almost four months. With that in the back of my head I have been planning my comeback ever since and looks like 2014 will be the year. Although finishing the Absa Cape Epic this year I have generally been more of a triathlete doing multisport and adventure races, so this week at Knysna will be a typical training week, just with a bit more intensity. (actually… a lot more!)

What do you think will be the most challenging aspects of the BIG 5 Challenge?

Tiaan: What makes this event so appealing is the fact that each event will post its own little challenge, yet we do it almost every day for 9 days, which transforms ordinary 'individual' events into quite the BIG 5 challenge.

What are your three top training tips for challenges of this kind?

Tiaan: Consistency is extremely important, especially when you’re training for a big event like the BIG5 Challenge.

- Find a group to help keep you motivated during training.

- Join a coached group and make sure you have a goal.

Are there any BIG 5 participants that particularly inspire you - and why?

Tiaan: I have to be honest, being such a small community in South Africa, every athlete taking part is a massive inspiration and with athletes like Kent Horner, Stuart Marais and Carla van Huyssteen to look up to is just a blessing. Also don't forget about the top youngsters like Matt Trautman who will lead the future athletes.

What's the one thing that you are looking forward to this year at #KOF2014?

Tiaan: Visiting Knysna being one of our (my wife as well) favorite towns in South Africa and just spending time with like minded friends and athletes while training and competing with some of the world's best athletes.

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