Louzanne Coetzee and Claus Kempen have been an inseparable running duo for nearly a decade, having built a relationship founded on humour, friendship, and mutual respect. Their journey together goes beyond the track, showcasing a unique bond that integrates their lives and their families.
Get It Bloemfontein caught up with the duo to chat about their journey together over the years and to also find out where they’re at with the prep for the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris taking place in September.
“We’ve been running together for nine years,” Louzanne says. “I think the foundation of our relationship is humour and just friendship,” she adds. “Running is important, but so is making sure we are okay as individuals outside of running,” Claus further adds.
Their relationship, described as a brother-sister dynamic, emphasises the importance of personal well-being alongside athletic performance. “Our relationship is now becoming a teenager. Hopefully, it doesn’t come with all the hormones and fighting!” Claus jokingly notes.
Claus and Louzanne’s partnership extends beyond their running sessions. Claus speaks fondly of their integration into each other’s lives.
“The guiding part and running with somebody is actually the easiest part. Integrating both our lives and still basically staying independent is what makes it so wonderful,” he shares.
He further says he does from time to time get mistaken for being Louzanne’s father, which the two of them find hilarious.
He also finds amusement in how people perceive their relationship while travelling together. “My favourite part of travelling with Louzanne is when people are unsure of our relationship. They often think we’re on a date,” he laughs.
Louzanne highlights the vital support from their families, including Claus’s wife and two children and her own husband, emphasising that their buy-in is crucial for their success and happiness.
Speaking of husband, Louzanne and Jeandré Badenhorst have been married for nine months now, and she expresses delight in her newlywed life. “My husband has been very supportive, and I’m really enjoying the honeymoon phase,” she beams.
Claus’s family has embraced Louzanne as one of their own, with his children and wife understanding and supporting their unique bond. “My kids play around and joke with her often. We really have an amazing relationship,” he shares.
As they gear up for the upcoming Paralympic Games in September, Louzanne, a seasoned Paralympian, says: “This is my third Paralympics. Prep is going well despite the cold weather. I really just expect to enjoy the games and be thankful to be there injury-free.”
Claus echoes her sentiments, stressing the importance of going in confident but not overly fixated on winning medals. “Our focus is not necessarily the result; the result is a bonus. We are in a good space with no major injuries except my age,” Claus jokes.
Outside of the athletics track Louzanne coordinates the para-sports at Kovsie sports. In her free time, she enjoys reading books (braille and audio) as well as enjoying good movies and series. “I also enjoy baking,” she says. Furthermore, Louzanne enjoys spending time with her husband and their two dogs and two cats.
Claus on the other hand manages Stemma Animalia on behalf of SA Stud Book. In his free time, he enjoys sleeping in mostly. He also enjoys spending time on Netflix. “When we are not running or working I enjoy spending time with my wife and kids.”
As they continue their journey together, Louzanne and Claus remain dedicated to their shared goals and the joy of running. With the Paralympic Games on the horizon, they look forward to competing, enjoying the experience, and possibly bringing home medals, all while cherishing the incredible journey they’ve shared over the past nine years.
SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi #ChooseYou
The Johannesburg leg of the SPAR Women’s Challenge series is an annual race offering women of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels the opportunity to take part in a 5km or 10km race. The Jozi SPAR Women’s Challenge is constantly growing with thousands of new participants joining every year.
The Johannesburg SPAR Women’s Challenge race is a key part of the SPAR Grand Prix series – the only competition of its kind in South African road running. The Grand Prix series allows the country’s most outstanding female runners to score points across six SPAR Women’s Challenge 10km races and be eligible for cash prizes and other rewards.
Beyond their personal achievements, Louzanne and Claus use their partnership to inspire others. As ambassadors for the SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi, they strive to motivate women to pursue their unique passions fearlessly.
Since 2022, Louzanne has been an ambassador for the SPAR event, a role she cherishes deeply. “What I really enjoy about it is the family feel. Everyone involved makes you feel so special,” she shares.
Claus, though not a woman, finds joy in being part of the SPAR ambassadorship through Louzanne. He reflects on the iconic status of the SPAR Women’s event, feeling privileged to be involved and likening his experience to following in the footsteps of renowned figures like Renée Kalmer.
The 2024 SPAR Women’s Challenge theme, #ChooseYou, calls you to chase our dreams, empower ourselves, and in turn, uplift the women around us.
Reflecting on last year’s race filled with camaraderie and determination, SPAR now embarks on a new adventure. #ChooseYou is about self-determination and self-care, recognising your worth and nurturing your aspirations.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this annual tradition! Entries are capped at 12000, so secure your spot online. In-store registration opens on 5 August. The entry fee of R160 includes a race T-shirt, foam peak, entry into the event, and a copy of My Jozi Challenge Magazine. Aspiring 10km runners should note an additional R60 license fee (unless you’re part of a running club).
The event takes place on 6 October at 08:00 at Marks Park in Emmarentia, Johannesburg.
Entries: www.sparwomensjozi.co.za
Text: JUSTINE FORTUIN Venue: FREE STATE ATHLETICS STADIUM
