“We will get through this difficult time & come out stronger.” | Akani Simbine
How are you coping generally during the CV crisis?
I am coping pretty well. I am trying to stay healthy, fit and just positive that the world will get through this difficult time.
How have you had to amend your training regime?
I have to train at home as we are in a lockdown and cannot go anywhere. I have some gym equipment with me that I use to do my sessions and my running sessions are a bit different as there not that much space to do the sessions I would do on the track.
Picture: Akani breakfasting with UK professional boxer Isaac Chamberlain back in October 2019.
How tough has it been for you mentally?
It’s been very tough because you’re battling having all kinds of snacks and food and you have a choice now to get up and chill or get up and train as you would. Also the fact that the goal for this year (Olympics) is not there anymore makes it a bit difficult in the sense of “what goal am I training for” because there just might not be a season but you push on because I don’t want to take a step back when we get ready for next year.
When not focussed on training what do you do? Any gaming 1 on 1’s with other athletes?
I chill a lot. Well I don’t have much of a choice right now (!) but yes I do play FIFA online. Not sure who I play though cause it is random.
Is there anything new or surprising you have attempted to do with your daily schedule?
I’ve been trying to wash my shoes haha (!) but that is going slowly and also trying to read a book but that is also going slow haha (!).
Do you keep in touch with fellow SA / other athletes in lockdown?
Yes I do. We constantly check on each other and see how each one is handling this situation.
Picture: Akani and Isaac at a UK business conference back in October 2019.
How disappointed were you with the decision to delay the Olympics?
I was disappointed as this year was Olympic year but now its another year away which means I have more time to get better and faster. So there’s an opportunity in this delay.
In recent training I am told your sprint times were your best ever. How will you and your coach amend your training now the Olympics has been delayed?
We will just what we can do for now as we have to follow the law. That limits us with the training but we don’t stop. I trust coach is missing training as much as I do but I know he has a plan.
Have you been able to help your local community in any way during the CV crisis?
Right now its all about spreading awareness and trying to get the message across that this is a serious thing we are dealing with.
What one message would you give your fans at this difficult time?
To stay at home, practice social distancing, wash your hands regularly and just stay healthy. As a world we will get through this difficult time and come out of it stronger.