_{Source: https://www.citizen.co.za/parys-gazette/news/news-news/2024/12/13/parys-wetland-trail-a-true-test-of-fitness-and-skill/
Written by: Pierre Fourie, Parys Multisport.}

A group of 43 adventurous cyclists, runners and hikers ranging from six to 70 years old rounded up on the corner of End Street and Fourth Avenue the past week to take on the newly developed 5km trail through the Parys Wetland. The route was planned and designed by Pierre Fourie from Parys Multisport, and brought to life by Attie Koekemoer from Anatomic with his very skilled Koedoeslaagte team of route builders.

At Wednesday’s event some of our best provincial and national cyclists and cross country runners from Parys Multisport and Big Rock Cycling School, as well as members of the community, flexed their muscles and put the trail to the test. Johan de Villiers, Riko and Rudolf Vorster, Eugene Martins, Anna-Marie Ferreira, Roné Hattingh, Paul de Klerk, Nadia Bell, and Tara Walmsley were some of the local legends on the trail.

The general response from these very experienced athletes reflected excitement of having a quality trail on their doorstep. In addition to the convenience of having a training spot so close to home, it was also noted that this trail, with an elevation gain of 65m, offers a true test of skill and fitness when performed at high intensity, yet remains easy enough for recreational activities and bringing people closer to nature.

“This is a project that truly serves our entire community. This project is also, in my opinion, one of the best examples of how a community can break through all political and cultural barriers to move as one and make a dream come true,” said Koekemoer. Those who are familiar with the world-class trails at Koedoeslaagte and the high standards of the Fezile Dabi Cross Country District Leagues once again found themselves immersed in the excitement of a trail that was designed and built with master precision, skill and purpose.