A positive diagnosis for Covid-19 left cross-country mountain bike star Mariske Strauss breathless – literally and figuratively.
Top South African cross-country rider Mariske Strauss has recovered from the coronavirus and is ready for the resumption of the racing season. Photo: Supplied
“When I first found out I was a bit shocked, but my extreme fatigue and breathlessness all of a sudden made sense,” said the South African who had signed for Bart Brentjens’ CST PostNL Bafang team late last year.
The 29-year-old, who arguably came off her best World Cup season in 2019, announced on March 30 that she had tested positive for the coronavirus.
Her immediate concern was her parents with whom she had contact shortly before as they both had underlying health issues.
“Luckily, I had the option to stay with my boyfriend to ensure I kept my distance from them. I’m very thankful they are healthy.”
Strauss, currently biding her time in Durbanville in Cape Town, said the illness left her drained and struggling with intense muscle pain.
With her energy levels at an all-time low, she kept herself busy by baking, doing yoga, meditating, painting and, once allowed outside, some gardening.
“I made the best of the situation and actually enjoyed the time in solitude.”
Even though she was given the all-clear more than a month ago, she admitted to suffering several dips afterwards.
“I did have my heart checked out last week to make sure everything is good to go,” said Strauss, who has been feeling “normal” for two to three weeks.
“As my body is my profession, I wanted to make sure I was given the green light before I strapped down and started going full throttle.”
Finding her groove again has been a challenge.
“Being basically forced off my bike and not being able to train was tough. I felt like all the hard work and hours I had put in just slipped away.
“But that was part of the process: accepting my new reality.”
“Once I made peace with where I was, I was able to redirect my thoughts and energy to where I wanted to go. Now to put that drive into action and to start building.”
Strauss, who won this year’s Tankwa Trek alongside Candice Lill, said she missed having a plan racing-wise, but that the newly released UCI Mountain Bike World Cup calendar had given her some direction.
The first round will take place in Lenzerheide, Switzerland, on September 5 and 6.
“The goal is naturally still World Cup races and, looking at the new calendar, it’s going to be jam-packed.”
She said she was uncertain when racing in South Africa would resume and was merely trying to enjoy her time on the bike and getting in shape again.
“The rest I will take as it comes. After all, there’s unfortunately nothing I can do about it.”
Strauss said she appreciated the support she had received from all and sundry.
“I’m truly blessed with amazing family, friends and a great team behind me. I think that is the key. Find your tribe and stay in touch.
“It helps one stay grounded and makes the time away from your normal routine a bit more bearable.”
Her advice for other riders was to create a goal for themselves – even if it seemed “small and silly”.
“That goal gives you drive and direction, which you need to keep moving forward.”
