A moment with Marilyn Fischer

Knysna - A Q&A chat with former Big 5 Sport Challenge entrant - and finisher - Marilyn Fischer.

How many times have you done the BIG 5 so far, and how has your experience been each time?

Marilyn: I’ve done the BIG 5 once (2013) and I absolutely loved it!! It was very well organised, you feel very special over the 10 days of the festival, and you feel like a member of your very own athlete and supporter ‘family’ for the festival.

What is it about the BIG 5 and Knysna that keep you coming back?

Marilyn: The atmosphere within Knysna over the festival, the beauty of the little town and the area, the friendly people – locals and athletes and organisers and the events are all awesome and very well organised! J

What tips can you give to people who are competing for the first time, and might not know what to expect?

Marilyn: ENJOY the week and all the events. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself for the events – it’s a long week so pace yourself. Enjoy every day and eve – from a sport and a social perspective. Take time and make the effort to meet as many people as you can – I met so many awesome, interesting, like minded people last year and formed great friendships during last year’s event.

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

Marilyn: Carla van Huyssteen is a phenomenal athlete who definitely inspires me in Multi sport. Stuart Marais is also an awesome athlete to watch compete!

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

Marilyn: There are too many things to look forward to, I can’t possibly only name just one. Catching up with friends over champagne, the Knysna Wine Festival, the awesome view of the Knysna Quays from where I stay, The Featherbed trail run, coffee and treats at Le Petit Pain. Pizza at Marios at the Waterfront. Drinks at Mo’s. Oysters and Tapas bar, Dinner at Sirocco. Hiking trails in Harkerville. The super cool vibe in the forest huddling around fires drinking coffee, hot chocolate and rusks before the marathon. SO much to look forward to!