At 62, She's Off to Represent SA at World Pole and Aerial Sports Championships

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Joburg’s Debbie Howes, 62, is heading to Argentina to represent South Africa at the World Pole and Aerial Sports Championships.

Johannesburg, South Africa (20 August 2025) – If you’re ever worried you’re too old to try something new, meet Debbie Howes. She’s 62, and this year she’s packing her pole gear and heading off to Argentina alongside 16 others to represent South Africa at the World Pole and Aerial Sports Championships in October.

She’s on a mission to beat her personal best and see how far she can stretch outside of her comfort zone.

Debbie didn’t grow up dreaming of this. In fact, she only found pole sport in her late forties, after years of dancing and doing cabaret-style performances. When her son came along, she stepped away from the stage, but the need to move never really left. She started pole to keep herself fit, to challenge her mind and body, and to have fun.

By day, Debbie is a clinical psychologist. Her work is all about helping others carry life’s heavy stuff. She’s dedicated to doing the good things! So when she walks into the pole studio by night, it’s her chance to shake off the stress.

“It gives me a lot of stress release and it’s a totally different focus,” she says. “After sitting still the whole day, it’s just such a relief to move.”

This isn’t her first rodeo either. Debbie’s already stood on the World Championships stage twice, bringing home a gold medal from Poland and a bronze from Sweden. None of it’s been easy.

Last year, she was still recovering from a broken heel, but didn’t let it keep her off the competition floor. She’s even performed while under the weather.

“This year, my biggest goal is just to stay healthy!” she laughs.

Training is tough and recovery takes longer than it used to, but Debbie has learned how to listen to her body. She’s upped the level of difficulty in her routine this year, throwing in extra technical bonuses to push herself further and score better, hopefully putting herself in line for gold at the championships.

Howes will be competing in the masters 60-plus women category in a solo routine and a group performance alongside three teammates.

She says she owes it to years of movement, a good support system, and her approach to healthy, natural nutrition for keeping her in the game. Her son, who’s into pole and aerial sports too, cheers her on, as does her 90-something mom and the rest of the family.

“They understand it’s physically tough and takes discipline, but they’re proud of what I do.”

And the pressure is on. Debbie’s routine will be judged on strict criteria. Everything from strength and flexibility to timing and clean lines. There’s no hiding in this sport, and that’s what keeps it exciting for her.

For Debbie, pole isn’t just about physical strength or medals. It’s about being present and learning to trust yourself, especially when you’re nervous.

“What I really love is that it forces me to be fully present. Even if you’re anxious, you just remind yourself that each moment is only happening now. That’s what counts.”

She’s not big on giving grand advice, but she does hope more people will try something new, no matter their age.

“Step out of your comfort zone and try something that pushes you. You might find more joy and passion than you ever expected. Don’t be afraid to try, you could surprise yourself.”

She’s just not done growing, moving, or making the most of every moment. The proof is on the pole!