When the young Eastrace brothers run past, people of Vergenoeg cheer.
The Buffalo Flats’ boys, Keane, 16, and Callen, 12, will represent SA at the UIPM Biathle World Championships in Mossel Bay in December.
They are a source of pride and joy in their tight-knit community.
Keane, a grade 10 pupil at Port Rex High, and Callen, a grade 6 pupil at St Anne’s Catholic School, have qualified to compete in the swim-run-swim format under the SA Modern Pentathlon Association (Sampa).
Their father, Anver, said the journey began years ago when the boys discovered a love for swimming and running.
“Keane started swimming and running at a young age, and that’s where his passion for sport began,” he said.
“We were introduced to biathle in 2019 by Steven Prime, and we’ve loved it ever since. Callen followed in his big brother’s footsteps.”
Keane’s passion for triathlon was heightened when he watched his first Ironman event on East London’s Esplanade.
“He was approached by Randell Leendertz at the Trinity Baptist fun run, a church close to my heart, and was invited to join Triathlon,” Anver said.
“When Keane said he didn’t have a bike, Randell lent him one of his personal road bikes, which he still uses today. He even competed in the Africa Triathlon Champs on that bike.”
Following their selection for SA, training has intensified under coach Alex Kambule of Real Gijimas Athletics Club.
“The boys show full commitment and dedication,” Kambule said. “They cope well under pressure and never lose focus during big competitions.”
The running programme focuses on endurance and sand drills, supported by swimming coaches, Brinley Richards for pool sessions and Lucian Ruiters for open-water training.
“It’s huge for East London to have young athletes qualifying for an international event. Hopefully, it can inspire other young athletes,” Kambule said.
With the competition scheduled just after final exams, balancing schoolwork and training has been a challenge.
“It’s difficult to push our full potential while studying,” Keane said. “I train early mornings and again in the afternoon after school, then spend time with my books.”
The pressure is alleviated by the motivation they receive from faith and family.
“Before each race, I pray to God for strength and stamina,” he said. “Philippians 4:13 keeps me going, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. My goals for Worlds are to make the top 10, have fun, meet new people, and make God, my parents, and my community proud.”
Callen says what he loves most about biathle is the atmosphere and the support.
“I enjoy meeting new people and feeling the energy of the crowd,” he said. “I train early mornings with my big brother and swim every afternoon. I’m excited to represent my country again and see what the competition brings.”
Anver and his wife, Candice, who met in high school, have been married for 17 years. Both grew up in Buffalo Flats and now raise their sons in Vergenoeg, where they are deeply involved in community upliftment.
Candice works as a nursing sister at Empilweni Gompo Health Centre, where she is known for caring for patients with compassion and dignity. Anver, who works for the SA Police, dedicates much of his free time to community safety initiatives.
“We’re part of a neighbourhood watch group called The Scorpions of Vergenoeg, which helps prevent crime at night,” Anver said. “We also talk to local youth struggling with substance abuse. It’s not easy, but we do it because we care.”
The Eastraces describe themselves as a “God-fearing, spiritually grounded family,” with values deeply rooted in faith, love and community. The boys also attend youth services that promote positivity and moral upliftment.
“We are very blessed to have supportive coaches and mentors who guide us for free, God bless them.Without the support of our community through fundraising events, the boys wouldn’t have been able to compete.”
The family continues to raise funds to cover the costs of competing. The estimated total is around R25,000, including R8,000 in entry fees, R3,000 for tri-suits, R5,000 for competition kit, and R8,000 for travel and accommodation. Nutrition and supplements add R2,000.
“Linen by Annette Catering Company has been one of our biggest supporters, helping us with catering for these events. Unfortunately, requests to companies for sponsorship have so far had no response.”
The Eastrace family remains hopeful and grounded, come what may.
“This opportunity proves that God is good all the time,” Anver said. “Without him, none of this would be possible. We’re proud of our boys for waving the national flag high and making their community proud.”
Anyone wishing to support the Eastrace brothers’ journey to the World Championships can contact Anver Eastrace at eastraceam83@gmail.com or on 082-813-4586.
