In the News: The former Springbok rugby player building a global online network for South Africans

His move into the business world has not diminished Van der Merwe’s love of sports and the outdoors. However, like many people building their careers, he put exercise and training on the back burner.

Last December, Van der Merwe found himself at 152kg and decided to make a drastic change. With the encouragement of his friend, Stephan Weyers, he set his sights on Ironman 70.3 Vichy, in France.

“On 18 January, his first session wasn’t a swim or a bike, it was simply a one-hour walk,” Ironman South Africa wrote on social media.

“Step by step, those walks turned into runs, rides, and swims, and before long, into a journey of discipline and self-belief. Seven months later, he was standing on the start line in France.”

On race day, 24 August 2025, Van der Merwe’s goal was 6h30. He crossed the finish line in 6h36, despite cramps setting in 1km into the run.

He changed his strategy and took it water station by water station, with 10 minutes of running and 2 minutes of walking.

“Slowly but surely, he pushed through the dark moments until he reached the bridge at 17km. That’s when he knew: he was going to finish,” Ironman South Africa said.

“The relief when I crossed that bridge… knowing I’m actually going to make it. Running up the final stretch, the music pumping, the crowd cheering, and seeing my wife on the sidelines, it was emotional,” said Van der Merwe.

“Stephan gave me my medal, and my first thought was: when is my next one?”