No club would function efficiently without a competent committee working in the background to ensure that the club functions, events happen, standards are upheld, members get great value as proud “Westies” and things run smoothly. Our committee is comprised of various portfolios covering different aspects of operations within the club to ensure that you, our valued members, get the most from your choice of athletic club. However we are also passionate runners just like our members, proud to be part of the West Coast AC family. We all strive to make WCAC the best running club around, and to do that we all need to work together so we are always open to suggestions, to do that please feel free to chat to any of us, we are here for you!
David WilcockClub Chairman |
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Quote: | Nil Satis Nisi Optimum ( Loosely translated from the Worlds greatest football team – Nothing but the best!) |
Portfolio: | I am Chair of an awesome group of people and we are striving to make West Coast AC the running club of choice! |
Personal Introduction: | Born in Lancashire and had a huge culture shock to the Northern Cape as a 10 year old then to PE and then to Cape Town. I’m a Dad to a tween which keeps me on my toes! My dream is to play bridge all day interspersed with a bit of running. |
Running History: | The running started to keep the tummy down after a knee operation playing football. Cross country is the best! My favourite races are the Camel Run, Bastille Day trail and Niel Joubert. One day I’d love to do the Sky Run and an off the beaten track overseas marathon. I’ve met so many amazing people and been to places I’d never have gone to if it had not been for running. |
Inspirations as a runner: | My first inspiration was watching Sebastian Coe while on holiday as a child, I still get goosebumps watching him on Youtube. |
Why I chose West Coast as my club: | Making friends and having fun is what life is about, I love that everyone encourages each other to be their best. |
David YuillVice Captain – Long Distance |
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Quote: | Focus on the opportunities as opposed to problems in life. |
Portfolio: | To promote long distance road running within the club. Help, encourage and guide members to the best of their ability. Promote WCAC as the best running club in the country. |
Personal Introduction: | Originally from Jhb and grew up there. In 2000 moved to Cape Town and have also spent about three years living abroad in UK. I have two wonderful kids and a loving family and awesome friends. Enjoy socialising, photography, and most sports. I work for myself as a marketing and data insights consultant, specialising in the FMCG environment. |
Running History: | I grew up in a running family with my dad having run 10 Comrades and numerous other races. He encouraged me at age 10 to start running cross country and athletics and continued to love the sport throughout school. Highlights during school was representing Central Gauteng Schools at Cross Country and achieving a 2min 800m PB. After around 15 years of not running a friend wanted to do the Two Oceans Ultra in 2007 and asked me to join him in training for it. We completed our first marathon in 2006 and I joined WCAC in 2007. The running bug bit big time and the childhood dream of Comrades started to become a reality. I completed my first Comrades that year in 2007 and since then this race has become the epitome of why we run. It is without doubt the most iconic race on the planet. Apart from a healthier lifestyle, running has provided me with many great friendships, laughter, humility, respect, as well as teaching me a lot about life in the process. Personal goals remain to obtain my Comrades Green number, achieve a Bill Rowan and potentially a Silver. To continue to broaden my knowledge of the sport and help and encourage others achieve their goals in the sport as well |
Inspirations as a runner: | My inspiration in running (and life) is very personal and this provides me, not only the strength and perseverance in races, but more importantly the knowledge to enjoy each moment not matter what the circumstances are |
Why I chose West Coast as my club: | WCAC is more than a running club, it’s a family. From old to young, the members are there for one another. The spirit and friendliness that fellow WCAC show each other (and other clubs) during races is an advertisement to others on what a running should be. I would strongly encourage any member, old or new, to become more involved in the club to really experience the camaraderie that flows through the clubs veins |
Bruce WoodCaptain – Cross Country |
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Running History: |
IIn 2013 my eldest daughter dragged the entire family off to the Sunflower Fund run in Green Point, where my youngest daughter and wife found they could enter on the day. They all participated in the race in the pouring rain ( I refused) and the sight of my youngest daughter finishing 7 km’s in her pink gumboots, inspired me to enter the entire family in the 5km Gun Run in October of that year. In 2014 I started the year weighing in at almost 120kg’s and having just given up smoking 20 camel filters a day, decided it was time to get back into shape and start running. Most of 2014 consisted of trying to get from walking to being able to run for 30 minutes continuously. In June 2014 I completed the 8km Dudley’s Trail Run at Diemersdal Wine farm in just over 61 minutes using a run/walk strategy. Just after completing the 5km Gun Run in October 2014, I decided to enter the Two Oceans Ultra in March 2015, not yet having run more than 10 km and still needing to use a run/walk strategy to get through 10km. The rest of 2014 was spent trying to get my 10km time down from 80 minutes to around 60 minutes before tackling longer distances. In December 2014 I joined West Coast Athletics Club, and in January 2015 ran further than 10km for the first time in 26 years. In January 2015 my long runs progressed weekly from 15km to 18km to 24km to 30km to 36km culminating in running my first Marathon, the Peninsula on 15th February 2015( I hadn’t come across the concept of tapering yet), and finishing in a time of 4hrs 54 minutes, scraping Two Oceans qualification with 6 minutes to spare. I went on to complete my first Two Oceans in March 2015 in 6hrs 42 mins.(please note that this is not the recommended way of doing it, I just didn’t know any better then!) In 2015 I was also introduced to Cross Country for the first time and participated in the last three meetings of the season. In 2016, I completed my first Comrades Marathon, and never missed a single cross country meeting during the year. Cross Country is an excellent means of improving your speed and core strength, so don’t miss Cross Country! |
Gillian GrobbelaarCaptain – Walking |
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Quote: | Everything is better with bubbles. |
Portfolio: | Walking Representative. Help an encourage pack packers to achieve their individual goals. |
Personal Introduction: | Born in Durban, grew up in Walvis Bay. Stayed in almost every sea port in SA, consider Cape Town my Home. Retired from corporate life, now running a boutique B&B, and planning to write a book about my interesting guests. |
Running History: | Had a mid life crisis about 8 years ago. Quit corporate life, could not afford a flash car, so bought a pair of running shoes and joined a club. Nine months later I did my first 21km. Its totally changed my life. I’ve met the most amazing people, doing the most incredible things. And not just on the running front. I feel like I belong to a secret society that meets at the most ungodly hours of the morning, dressed in the most technicolored kit, to push themselves to the point of exhaustion and beyond for fun. 🤓. And I enjoy every minute of it. I also enjoy mentoring and helping people who have never run or done races. It’s the most fulfilling thing to run a 10km with somebody who never ever thought they would be able to walk 2km. |
Inspirations as a runner: | I get inspired almost every day and definitely at every race. Simply by people doing the most incredible things. Athletes who have over come physical and other disabilities to compete in races. Athletes who sacrifice their own PBs to help less experienced runners achieve their goals. |
Why I chose West Coast as my club: | I have always found West Coast runners to be of the friendliest. Their runners have also had time to chat and give words of encouragement on a race, and not just to their own club members. I love the fact that the club is totally focused on their members and the good of the club. I mostly love all the members. |
Alan GreenYouth Development |
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Quote: | If you do not try you will never know just how good you are |
Portfolio: | Coaching of all disciplines from juniors to seniors in track and field, cross country, road running, trail running and mountain running. Also liaison with City Cape Town regarding plans for future sporting facilities |
Personal Introduction: | I grew up in Johannesburg where I played all sports at various levels. I am a professional sports coach who coaches at various levels in most sporting codes from beginners to the advanced levels. |
Running History: | I started running at age 6 for team sports. I have been running for about 48 years doing various distances Personal milestones are: 32 minute 10 kilometer road race in Johannesburg A 1 minute 51 800 meter track race Johannesburg I have run two PUFfeRS and 9 Tuffer PUFfeRS 12 Three Peaks 1 Wild Coast Extreme Addo Elephant Hout Bay Challenge Fisherman’s Trail Midnight Hell run Many marathons with 7 marathons in eight days in seven African countries last year 17 Two Oceans Ultra Marathons 1 Comrades marathon I enjoy running on all types of terrain with trail/mountain after dark holding a special fondness for me I have always been someone who likes to push myself to see just how far or fast I can run. This has often lead to some disastrous results and lots of humour My running career is just about enjoyment My focus now is to help other runners see the benefit of running and experience the joy of training correctly to push themselves to reach their potential |
Inspirations as a runner: | I am still searching for that perfect coming together of hard training and running where every thing just works. The second dimension of running where it all makes sense |
Why I chose West Coast as my club: | I chose West Coast Athletic Club because the people are friendly and way back when I joined I met up with talented runners who pushed me to achieve |
Malcolm LombergProjects |
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Quote: | Take no prisoners & He who dares, WINS. |
Portfolio: | Special Projects. I handle projects that are outside of the normal daily day to day function of the club like the new Club House , The Norrie programs Or similar if need be. |
Personal Introduction: | Born in JHB & lived in Pietersberg until the age of 7. We moved to Cape town & I grew up in Parow. So I’m an original arrow from Parow so don’t cause KAK with me. I have two sisters, two nephews, 1 niece & loads Of Cuzins. Cuz Colin being one of them. Hobbies , use to be girls but I have passed that on to Dave as I have met an amazing young Lady, Simone, & Donte her son & they keep me on the short & narrow. I Love travelling when I can afford it & game farms where I am at my most peaceful. Other than that the club is almost a full time job but I love all the friends I make & journeys I share. |
Running History: | I started running to get fit after I got divorced, weighed 108kg. One of my first pack run I got lost (LEFT BEHIND. It was misty & last out of the toilet) as we were running to the light house & back. I didn’t know about the light house on Wood bridge Island & was told about that half way to Mouliepoint. I have done 8 Comrades incl. 4 Bill Rowans, 8 Two Oceans incl. 4 Chet Sainsbury, 4 Puffers, Loads of Marathons. My favourite distance I hope to run a Silver one day at Comrades & take a couple of you with me. My ultimate pleasure is Comrades tho Its just a mind blowing experience & awesome friendships that are formed. |
Inspirations as a runner: | I love helping other reach their full potential & enjoy helping those wanting to do a Comrades. |
Why I chose West Coast as my club: | Its the Original drinking club with a running problem Duh!!! |
Jacqui GilesMembership Officer |
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Quote: | Say it as it is ! |
Portfolio: | I look after all our memberships/licenses and kit sales – so am happy to be the one to make all new members feel welcome and get them up and running asap! |
Personal Introduction: | I am a full time working, single mom with 2 awesome boys and have been in the travel industry for over 25 years. I can be a procrastinator at times so am very proud of my motorbike license which I got when I was 40! Am a total chocoholic, love live music shows, hot summer days and would love to live in the countryside/bush one day! |
Running History: | I joined another club and used to walk round and round a field – but just got so bored and wanted more! So I entered the 10km Tyger Run last year without much training (and the wrong shoes) and I was hooked. First 10km and managed 1h10 which was great for me. I always thought running would be my “thinking time” but it turns out it has the opposite effect on me and I switch off totally. I managed a few more 10kms runs in 2017 (am proud of my 7 medals) before having a slight injury, so will be back soon and am aiming for Half Marathons soon. Nothing longer, but just those shorter distances with better times. And then there is always Cross Country and Trail which appeals to me as well…… |
Inspirations as a runner: | I think it has something to do with “zero to hero” and seeing the most unexpected people achieve greatness through running. Life is full of surprises and it’s all about challenging yourself – and not giving up! |
Why I chose West Coast as my club: | I walked into the club alone not too long ago and within minutes I felt welcomed and right at home! There is a fantastic vibe and such a great mix of people as well. Nothing beats the amazing support amongst everyone either and it feels like there really is something for everyone, from walkers to top athletes. A very welcoming, positive, festive and friendly club! Love it! |
Aubrey MakhubaWPA Representative
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Iain Park-RossRace Representative |
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Quote: |
“The answer is YES, what’s the question? “ |
Portfolio: |
Club Kit : source, procure, distribute, and maintain stocks. Race Director : West Coast Race Day |
Personal Introduction: |
I was born and bred in Durban and moved to Cape Town in 1993, after sailing back from Rio. Have 5 kids, ranging in age from 33 to 12, and they are my life (luckily all still in SA). I am a past National champion in sailing, and have sailed approx. 50000 miles at sea. After coming ashore from a sailing career in 1995 I worked for the same company for 21 years, as a Sales Professional in the Uninterruptible Power industry. I am now an independent consultant in Uninterruptible and Solar Power. |
Running History: |
I began running at University in Durban and was a member of Savages Athletic Club for about 10 years until 1992. My running stopped completely while all my kids were growing up and I concentrated on my career. I joined West Coast in 2013 after I discovered I could still run after a Park Run at Big Bay. My favourite race is 21km, and I have promised myself to do only one marathon a year. |
Inspirations as a runner: |
Easy: make sure my next race is not slower than the previous one. Qualify for my “big 5” award at year-end. At the same time: enjoy the companionship of my clubmates and respect everyone’s achievements – large or small. |
Why I chose West Coast as my club: |
Well, I live in Table View……. WCAC is a great club and once one gets into the gang, it becomes a second home. Everyone is down-to-earth and willing to participate and keen to grow as a runner. There are no prima donnas at our club and we have great fun. The camaraderie at races is really amazing |
Carl PohlFundraising |
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Quote: | If it is to be, it is up to you. |
Portfolio: | Raising funds to pay for the building costs for our clubhouse. |
Personal Introduction: | Lived in Pinelands, went to bordingschool, in Paarl Boys High. Ran for Maties. Married to Alison, two kids, Alan and Tara. Financial Advisor to individuals and companies for 32 years. Hobbies include travelling to game parks and overseas and photography and wine collecting. Enjoying spending time with family and friends. |
Running History: | Started running at school and as a novice entered the Karoo Ultra marathon, 80 km in 08h17. Was told by school i can run and started running then, ran for Maties, picked up career-ending injury at age 22, stopped. Cycled for years, till started running again at West Coast since 2015.Enjoy Trail running, entered my first 2Oceans Ultra for 2018. |
Inspirations as a runner: | I enjoy the feeling of being in nature, getting some exercise and being amongst friends. |
Why I chose West Coast as my club: | They take part in many disciplines, are supportive of all runners on all levels, are great people, passionate about the club and know how to party. |
Please support me on all the fundraising initiatives and thanks for the wonderful fundraising team I have, you all rock! |