We had the pleasure of speaking with Kirsty Weir, who has just qualified for Team South Africa in the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Kirsty shared her incredible journey, filled with challenges, resilience, and unwavering determination. Here's what she had to say:
Qualifying for Paris 2024
How did you feel when you first heard the news that you had qualified for the 2024 Paris Paralympics?
"It was a very nervous wait, that’s for sure. It was touch and go and came down to the last race to see who had enough points. I eventually said to my coach, Rohan Kennedy, 'Roh, I can’t watch, I can’t read the results, just let me know.' My nerves were shattered."
Journey and Challenges
Can you share some of the biggest challenges you faced on your journey to qualifying for the Paralympics, especially dealing with neurological lupus?
"Neurological lupus has changed my life…in the best way possible. I’m the luckiest girl in the world to be sick and have neuro and brain issues, if that can even make sense. It has given me a reason to fight, opportunities I’ve never dreamt about, and brought amazing people into my life. Every day is a challenge with migraines, loss of feeling and coordination, pain, fatigue, mini-strokes, and confusion. But, I have para triathlon and my amazing parents to keep me going. Do I get it right every day? Definitely not, but I try."
Motivation and Inspiration
What inspired you to keep pushing forward despite the health challenges and setbacks?
"I’m my mother’s child…I’m competitive! I love training and racing. Being a top runner, I always wanted a top 10 at Comrades. For 14 years, not knowing what was wrong, it was all I had to hold on to. Then came the diagnosis, classification, and a call from Beryl Campbell, South Africa’s para triathlon 'mother,' suggesting I try para triathlon. Initially, I thought she was nuts, but it gave me a new reason to push forward."
Training Regimen
Could you describe your training routine? How do you balance training with managing your health condition?
"I get up every day and try, but some days I just have nothing in me and the disease wins. Those days are very hard as I feel like I’m letting people down and I miss the training. My coach is amazing and teaches me that it’s okay. Training makes me feel so much better, even if I’m struggling."
Support System
Who has been your biggest support throughout your journey, and how have they helped you get to where you are today?
"Oh, my Mom and Dad. My mom has run six Comrades and two Oceans marathons. Growing up, I watched her train and race. Being sick most of my life, I’ve always relied on them. I live with them still and wouldn’t want it any other way. My coach Rohan Kennedy, my para Mom Beryl, and lifelong friend Damien Catherine keep me in check. I wouldn’t be here without them."
Mindset and Resilience
How do you stay mentally resilient and positive in the face of adversity?
"I try to find the positive in every day, no matter how small it is."
Triathlon Specifics
What aspect of the triathlon do you find the most challenging, and how do you prepare for it?
"Oh my word, the swim! I’m not a swimmer and have never been properly taught, so it’s a challenge. But I know I can improve with the right help. It frustrates me now, but I’m determined to work on it."
Goals for Paris 2024
What are your personal goals and expectations for the Paralympics in Paris?
"I am completely overwhelmed by all of this. I want to take it all in, learn from the race and experience, enjoy it, give it my all on race day, and come back home more inspired and fired up for the next four years. I want a medal in 2028 in L.A."
Advice for Aspiring Athletes
What advice would you give to other athletes who might be facing their own set of challenges?
"NEVER EVER GIVE UP! And remember, 'Choice not chance determines destiny' and 'The world is full of beautiful things for those whose dreams are built on wings.'"
Kirsty Weir's journey is a testament to resilience and the power of perseverance. We look forward to seeing her compete in Paris and continue inspiring athletes around the world.
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