Pieter Du Preez is an inspiration to athletes of every discipline because of his dedication to do his best and prove that having a disability shouldn’t stop you.
Pieter Du Preez was the first quadriplegic in the world to complete an Ironman. He worked hard to reach that goal and continues to inspire, even today.
In 2003, Pieter was struck down by a car, breaking his neck and leaving him paralysed from the chest down. He spent 42 days in the ICU and when he woke, couldn’t move any part of his body. Du Preez can now move his wrists, biceps and shoulders which is how he manages his day-to-day mobility.
Recently, SBR Sport Sunninghill shared an inspiring image of Pieter Du Preez with his son shortly before he went on to win his 7th International para-cycle race. He took part in the BMW Berlin-Marathon and placed first in his T1 division.
“Pieter Du Preez wins his handicap division (It’s very difficult to write the words ‘handicap’ and ‘Pieter’ in the same sentence) for the 7th time in a row in Berlin.
Unfortunately, the mainstream media will miss this. However, we celebrate his win, tenacity, courage and pure discipline.
The picture is of him moving from his day to day wheelchair to his racing chair. His son is there to give him a smile and that extra boost of motivation.”
As an ambassador for Wings for Life, he hopes his story can inspire others to keep fighting for their dreams. If Pieter hasn’t inspired you enough, take a watch of his inspirational journey since his accident below.
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