As a young rugby player, Chanton Perrins never imagined he would pursue a professional cycling career. How could he?
Chanton Perrins is part of the seven-man team that will represent South Africa at the junior track worlds in Cairo, Egypt in August. Photo supplied
The cycling chapter of his life story started shortly after he was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) – a rare disorder that tricks the body’s immune system into attacking the nerves – at the age of 11.
“Due to this syndrome, I picked up a lot of weight because I was incapable of doing any kind of sport,” said the 17-year-old who was recently selected to represent South Africa at the junior track worlds in Cairo, Egypt, later this year.
“When it eventually blew over a year later, my eldest brother told me that it was time to lose all the weight.”
His father and two brothers were cyclists and they suggested the sport would be a good way for him to lose weight and keep him motivated.
“I picked up my bike again and trained with my brother every day. Through him, and all the training I did for fun, I ended up liking the sport more than rugby and here I am pursuing it more and more everyday and I love it.
“What also contributed to my motivation was the fact that not many people recover fully from Guillain-Barré syndrome, and by the grace of God I did.
“Racing is one of the many ways I give thanks to God for the opportunities he has granted me.”
Perrins said being selected for the national team was a dream come true and that he was looking forward to experiencing the world stage, where he will compete in the madison as well as the team pursuit with Kyle Swanepoel, Jonty Bouwer and Dillon Geary.
“Doing well there will mean the world to me as it’s something every junior dreams of,” said the EGK All 4 Security Solutions rider who placed fourth at the national omnium champs in March.
He also hoped to deliver performances that would potentially catch the eye of a professional team.
Like his compatriots, Perrins has been forced to cycle indoors as he prepares for Egypt.
“Indoor training doesn’t offer as much as the road and track, but keeping fit now is my first priority,” said the youngster from Wellington, who is indulging in virtual riding while doing basic core work.
“Cycling has definitely taught me patience and discipline. I’ve learned that if you don’t have discipline, you will lack in many aspects of the sport as well as in life.”
