At 62, Catharina Horstink, affectionately known as Ina, is a testament to the adage that age is just a number. From cycling and mountain biking to Pilates, diving, and weightlifting, she tackles life with the energy of someone half her age.
“These activities help to keep the body and core strong. I’m very proud of my age, and I’m a strong 62-year-old lady,” she says with a radiant smile.
Ina, a Recreation Officer for Community Development in Region B, is also acting Manager for the Roosevelt and Coronationville Recreation centres until the end of the year.
Her cycling journey began in 2020 and quickly evolved into her greatest passion. “Cycling has so many benefits. It boosts energy, improves circulation, and is great for my mental health,” she explains. For Ina, it’s about more than just staying fit—it’s about maintaining mental sharpness too. “I want to be an all-rounded, mentally and physically healthy person.”
Ina also relishes the camaraderie cycling offers. “I love the coffee and good conversations that come with riding with friends,” she adds.
As she gears up for the 97km road race on Sunday, 17 November 2024, her confidence shines. “I am ready for the race,” she declares. Ina’s rigorous training regimen includes strength workouts, interval training, spinning, and endurance rides.
A standout moment in her cycling journey came recently at the Amashova Cycling event. Ina was the first woman in her age group to complete the challenging 132km race, which started at the Nelson Mandela Capture site in Howick, KwaZulu-Natal. Battling rain for most of the route, she crossed the finish line triumphant.
“It was the longest race I’ve done, but I pushed through, and it was a huge highlight in my cycling career,” she says proudly.
Blitz Questions:
Uphill or downhill? Downhill
Go-to snack before a race? Banana
Go-to energy booster before a race? Biogen energy bar and High5 electrolytes during the race
Song that boosts your mood? Enter Sandman by Metallica
Edition participating in Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg? 5th
Written by Brümilda Swartbooi
14/11/2024
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