My name is Roelof Mostert and I’m an endurance athlete, born and raised In Cape Town, currently residing in Plettenberg bay. My chronological age is 39 and my metabolic age is 25 😉
Ultra-runner turned gravel racer turned ultra-runner, doing hard shit makes you better. Movement is life!
- Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you first got into running?
As a kid I was naturally very talented and every sporting discipline I touched turned to gold, however, I was even better a people pleasing and that led to very destructive behaviour leading into adulthood. I rediscovered sports as a means to mitigate a potentially life threatening downward spiral. I started running at the tender age of 28.
- What motivates you to lace up your shoes and hit the trail every day?
It’s probably a token cliche but through years of practical life experience and failing I am of the strong opinion that having a purpose adds tremendous meaning to a rudderless life. My purpose is sports.
- What distance races do you mostly enter?
50-100km
- How do you handle the mental and physical challenges that come with being a long-distance runner?
By means of a full and unwavering appreciation for a second chance, not only in sport but in life. Taking your talents to the grave is the single most tragic thing a person can do upon expiration.
- What do you hope to achieve in your running career, both in the short term and long term?
National domination.
- How do you balance your training schedule with other aspects of your life, such as work or family commitments?
Fortunately I have to social or family commitments. I pretty much just work to support my running life, and what a glorious pursuit!
- What has been the most memorable race or running experience of your career so far, and why?
The UTCT 100km, I have failed here 5 years back to back, and when I say “fail” what I actually mean is learn. My obsession with trying to podium this race has enriched my life in unimaginable ways. Today I am a better athlete and human being because of this.
- How do you approach setting goals for yourself, and what steps do you take to achieve them?
Well, I happen to be right brain dominant so even during the visualisation stages my goal is already a vivid work of art, true and realistic. Execution is a combination of consistency, discipline and a dash of OCD 😅 oh ! Did I mention I am an A – tipe??
- Can you share some insights into your training regimen and any specific workouts or techniques that have been particularly effective for you?
There’s unfortunately no magic bullet so I just stick to the fundamentals. If you train hard you need to recover hard. Athletes are made in the kitchen, and sleep over everything!
- How do you stay focused and maintain a positive mindset during tough times or setbacks in your running journey?
The fear of regret, knowing that I was gifted with a God-given talent and knowingly squandered it in the pursuit of pleasure.