Tissink & Heymans Riding in 2012

It was confirmed at 3pm on 14 March 2012 that multiple Ironman Champion, Raynard Tissink and Mr. African, Mannie Heymans will be teaming up to take on the challenging 2012 Absa Cape Epic. They will be participating together in order to raise funds for the JAG Foundation, which is dedicated to mentoring and coaching organised physical activity programmes which target alcohol and drugs head-on, by showing the kids of lesser privileged communities that there is another better healthier pathway in life, which can give them hope to escape their surroundings through using sports as a catalyst for change. 

Team JAG (Tissink and Heymans), will be racing in the well-known black and yellow colours of the JAG Foundation, along with the likes of Marius Hurter and JAG Foundation founder, Greg James. 

Raynard Tissink during the 2010 Ironman World Championships

Tissink had the following to say regarding his decision to enter the 2012 Absa Cape Epic:  “I’m excited to be able to compete in my first Absa Cape Epic. I've always wanted to take part in what looks like a really tough race both physically and mentally, but due to Ironman South Africa commitments, have never been able to. So I'm really looking forward to just going out there and enjoying the best mountain biking the Cape has to offer, with no expectations of time or position.”

Mannie Heymans during the 2010 Absa Cape Epic 

Heymans had the following to say: “Well for the first time I will not be racing for top honours but rather for having fun, meeting new people and raising funds for the JAG foundation.”

Tissink will take to the course on his Trek Superfly 100 and Heymans on his Canondale.

The JAG Foundation are elated with Tissink and Heymans’ decision to raise funds and wish them the very best in their efforts and would furthermore like to thank their sponsors and contributors for their assistance.

For those wishing to pledge a donation toward their race, may visit: www.raymannieepic4jag.givengain.org. For more information on the JAG Foundation, visit www.jagfoundation.org.za.