Shanda Hill, an ultra athlete from Vernon, B.C., completed the first South Africa Deca Ultra Triathlon as the only female competitor, finishing in 279 hours and 30 minutes. She raised over $10,000 to achieve her goal of competing in future ultra-triathlons and seeks sponsorship for her upcoming races.
Shanda Hill, an ultra athlete from Vernon, British Columbia, accomplished a remarkable feat by completing the inaugural South Africa Deca Ultra Triathlon on March 20, 2023. As the only female participant, she finished with an impressive time of 279 hours and 30 minutes, conquering a challenging course that included 38 kilometers of swimming, 1,800 kilometers of cycling, and 422 kilometers of running, all while battling extreme heat, injury, and exhaustion.
Hill led the race from the start and maintained her position until St. Patrick’s Day, proving her prowess in a historically demanding competition. Her partner, Jacs Spence, commended her performance on Facebook, highlighting her achievement of not only being the first woman to finish but also securing second place overall against formidable male competitors. Hill demonstrated remarkable determination and skill, earning respect and admiration for her accomplishments.
After her triumphant finish, Hill expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support she received on social media, which deeply moved her. Spence noted that the encouragement from followers played a significant role in Hill’s journey, particularly during her toughest days. The community’s generosity shone through, raising $10,340 in donations to assist Hill in pursuing the ambitious goal of participating in every International Ultra Triathlon Association event in 2025, aiming for a new world record.
Hill is currently seeking sponsorship for her upcoming races, with seven more events lined up this season. Interested parties can reach her at info@shandahillultra.com for potential collaborations. She is scheduled to return to Vernon shortly to recover from an abductor muscle injury, having only 41 days remaining before her next competition, the Brazil Ultra Tri in Rio de Janeiro, set to commence on May 1.
In conclusion, Shanda Hill’s performance in the South Africa Deca Ultra Triathlon is a testament to her tenacity and dedication. As the only woman to participate, she not only claimed first place in the women’s category but also finished second overall. Her journey has inspired many, and with community support, she aims to further her athletic goals and break records in the ultra-triathlon circuit.
Original Source: www.mapleridgenews.com
