Who is …. Louise Kotze
At 37 years old I would like people to look at me and see someone who wakes up in the morning with one goal in life... To fall into bed at night with a big smile on my face knowing I did my best to have fun today. Enduro/trail/Downhill does just that for me.
Being a regular at the GP and KZN gravity races and on their podiums - What are your race plans and goals for the rest of 2018 and looking ahead to 2019.
I believe in staying busy and the rest of 2018 is no exception. Let's see if I can remember the order of these races... Lol
Gauteng has the two remaining Hakahana Enduros and two Dustin Rudmin Invitationals up here.
But it's Ezelenduro in September that has me excited! This will be the first year I'll be racing. After Endurotech helped me with my entry for the Kingdom Enduro earlier this year I got so stoked to ride more gnarly, raw and natural trails. Can't wait! Woohoo!!!
There is also the SA Enduro Champs at Karkloof! Going to be a toughie but Karkloof is magical
For 2019 I have more of a prayer list than any big races confirmed.
Kingdom Enduro in Lesotho would be wonderful to race again.
I'd like to race one or two of the EWS qualifiers in Europe next year (holding my breath)I am of course going to support as many of our local Enduros as possible but my dream goals scare me a little... As they should!
"If your dreams don't scare you they are not big enough".
Does fast happen in the legs or the head – which is more important in racing and riding?
Tough, fit and strong legs are essential in the mountain bike game but that is all for nought if you are heading in the wrong direction and off the track.
What would you say are some of your weaknesses?
What would you say are some of your strengths?
Do you have any advice for ladies wanting to get into the Gravity disciplines as some may initially be put off by the “danger” factor?
There are always B-lines, no air time required.. Hehe
Ride with other ladies!!!
To tell me to 'just do it' does not have the desired effect. Ladies understand other ladies and our fears are real. Reach out to the gravity community in your area.
At every bike park I have ever been to there has always been a few awesome ladies riding technical trails willing to show a newbie the ropes. Our MTB family is big and generous and our enthusiasm is contagious. Be brave and ask for assistance.
Where’s your favourite place to ride?
What’s your favourite type of trail or track to ride?
What rides/Races are on your bucket list?
What are some of your biggest accomplishments?
I come from a marathon and Adventure racing background and have only fairly recently moved over to proper gravity riding. I have been blessed with a couple of results I'm proud of since starting racing Enduro and Downhill.
Last year I was the Gauteng ladies Enduro champ. I also managed a KZN Enduro series win in my category (sub vet ladies) and finished as the Hakahana ladies series winner.
This year I competed, finished and podiumed at the first EWS qualifier in Africa that was held in Roma, Lesotho, called the Kingdom Enduro. I was also on the Podium and received the category win in the Provincial and National Downhill Champs at Harties.
I won the top step overall lady and category win at the KZN Enduro champs held at Giba.
It's been fun so far.
What’s been your luckiest escape?
Oh boy!
There have been so many, ranging from taking the shortcut off the mountain via sheer cliff or falling over in the parking lot. Lol.
I keep my Guardian Angels, Charlie and Bruce, quite busy. (Yes, I named them! And yes, I need two. Although I think with Downhill they call for backup .. Hehe)