A young amputee from Johannesburg is about to make history in Obstacle Course Racing in South Africa and inspire everyone in the process.
No stranger to the obstacle course racing (OCR) world, Hannes Brits has taken part in seven Warrior Races in less than two years, including two Rookie events, 3 Commando events, two Commando Elite events and one Black Ops event!
He has covered over 100km and over 150 obstacles in total, all while on crutches without his left leg.
And now the Warrior Race battlegrounds of Legends in Pretoria are on the verge of seeing history in the making when Brits competes on 19 November to become the first amputee in Warrior Race history to take on the Black Ops category for a second time (thats the toughest one).
Hailing form Germiston in Johannesburg, Brits had his leg amputated in 2010 after battling with years of challenges.
“The world I knew before I had my leg amputated was limited, I could never partake in any sports or outdoor activities in fear of the smallest injury to my leg, could send me to hospital. The risks were always too large, even walking was a challenge.”
“This was a new world that had been opened up to me and today I am able to partake in physical activities. This whole experience has been a big wakeup call for me!”
“I will always be disabled, but the only thing that will limit me, will be my thoughts!”
Brits took part in his first Warrior Race in 2015 at the encouragement of his friends and has been hooked on achieving the impossible ever since then, the incredible athlete believes that one can never be too old to pursue your dreams and hopes to one day become a motivational speaker.
“I have a real passion for helping people. I would love to speak to the children in schools and orphanages to inspire them for their future success.”
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Brits is a true sporting representative for the physically disabled community and further dreams of encouraging more amputee athletes to get into OCR so that they can also push their limits and encourage those around them.
“I want the world to know that no matter what obstacle may be in their way, there is always a will to make a way but one needs to still carve that way. If we look at a situation and think we can’t, then we won’t, but if we look at it as a challenge and we look for a solution, then we will find the solution and we will ultimately achieve success.”
“I am living proof that it is possible and I wish to inspire others to join me and love every moment of the life and blessing that they have been given. Be grateful for every moment and make the very best of it.”
The Jeep Warrior Race powered by Reebok is the perfect platform for overcomers and although the Blacks Ops category may not be for the faint-hearted, Hannes has already defied all the odds. Support Hannes today so that he can keep on exceeding his, and everyone else’s, expectations.
To assist Brits realise his dream and make history call him on 076 918 8764 or email to hbrits00@gmail.com.
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