South Africa’s Kadence Ribbink delivered a strong performance to claim victory at the 2025 Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Junior Cup, held at Troutbeck Resort in Nyanga, Zimbabwe. Competing in the junior women’s category on March 8, 2025, Ribbink secured the gold medal, followed by fellow South African Karli Lotter in second place. Zimbabwe’s Nicole Madya completed the podium with a well-earned bronze.
Composed Racing on a Demanding Course
The junior women’s race featured a 750m swim, a 20.33km bike ride, and a 5km run on the challenging high-altitude Troutbeck course. Ribbink executed a steady and controlled race, maintaining her composure through each leg to take the win. Lotter also impressed with a strong all-round performance to secure silver, continuing her upward trajectory in the sport.
Madya, despite being the last athlete out of the water, showed determination in the bike and run segments to work her way onto the podium, earning well-deserved applause from the local crowd.
Ribbink’s Continued Success
This win adds to Ribbink’s growing list of achievements. She has consistently performed well on the junior triathlon circuit, and her dedication to training is evident in her recent results. Just a week after her Troutbeck triumph, she clinched the national title in the 18-19 category at the South African Sprint Triathlon Championships in Benoni, reinforcing her status as a promising young athlete.
Lotter, still early in her U19 career, has shown great potential and is gaining valuable experience racing at a high level. With her sights set on further success, she is developing into one of South Africa’s standout junior triathletes.
A Competitive Event at a Stunning Venue
The 2025 Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Junior Cup attracted athletes from over 13 nations, making for a competitive and well-organized event. The Troutbeck course, known for its picturesque setting and demanding conditions, provided an ideal backdrop for a high-quality race.
In the elite events, Greece’s Panagiotis Bitados won the men’s race, while Zimbabwe-born Dutch athlete Rachel Klamer took the women’s title. The event once again highlighted the region’s ability to host top-tier international triathlon competitions.
Looking Forward
Ribbink and Lotter’s performances in Zimbabwe demonstrate South Africa’s strength in junior triathlon. Both athletes continue to develop and gain valuable international experience, and their results at Troutbeck are a positive sign for the future.
As they build on this momentum, South African triathlon fans can look forward to seeing more from these two rising talents in the years ahead.
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