From a borrowed bike with broken gears to the start line of some of South Africa’s biggest races, Damon Terblanche’s journey hasn’t been easy — but it’s been full of heart. Raised in Knysna and shaped by the Knysna Sports Academy, Damon is proof that talent, grit, and a deep sense of purpose can take you further than you ever imagined. Now a rider for the Pump for Peace Racing Team, he’s chasing big goals while giving back to the community that raised him.

Your Journey into Cycling

How did you first discover cycling?

My journey began when a few friends and I joined the Knysna Sports Academy. I was the slowest in the group and rode an old MTB with broken gears. I nearly cried on one ride – but it became a turning point. I promised myself I’d never feel that helpless again.

What role did the Academy play in your path?

It became a second home. The Academy taught me discipline, focus, and belief. Their slogan, “The Home of Future Legends,” still drives me.

When did you know you wanted to take this seriously?

After high school, I started coaching kids. One said, “I want to be faster than you,” and that pushed me. My top-five finish at the Under-23 African Champs marked a pivotal moment.

Career Highlights

What result are you most proud of?

My first Western Cape XCO win. I raced through hunger and uncertainty. That victory was for every meal my mother skipped so we could eat.

Hardest race so far?

Wines2Whales 2023. Day 1 was strong. Day 2 was survival. I learned that if you’ve lived through struggle and held onto faith, you can push through anything.

Challenges and Growth

You didn’t always have the best gear. How did you stay focused?

Discipline carried me. My bike had a four-year-old groupset, but I kept showing up. My coaches helped me see the bigger picture.

Tell us about where you’re from.

I’m from Knysna. My mother raised six kids alone. My dad was never present. That struggle shaped me. It gave me grit.

Coaching and Giving Back

You’ve returned as a coach. What do you love about it?

Coaching gives me purpose. When a child says, “I want to be a world champion,” I see a brighter future for our community.

What’s a lesson you share with young riders?

Practice doesn’t make perfect – it makes progress. That mindset changes everything.

Pump for Peace & What’s Next

Why join Pump for Peace?

I’ve followed the team for years. Their mission matches my own – to prove a kid from Knysna can make it to a World Cup.

What does this team mean to you?

It’s more than racing. It’s about being someone younger riders can believe in. “If you don’t make someone’s life easier than you found it, you’ve failed.”

What are your 2025 goals?
✔ Compete at World Champs
✔ Win Western Cape XCO and Marathon titles
✔ Top 10 at Wines2Whales
✔ Build mental strength
✔ Launch a tour-guiding business

Bigger Picture

Do you feel like a role model in your community?

I do. For some kids, I may be the only one they have. That keeps me focused.

Your message to young athletes?

Start slow, but start. Discipline – not shortcuts – will carry you. The fight itself is the victory.

Damon rides with quiet determination – for his family, his community, and the kids who see themselves in his story. At Pump for Peace and Velosolutions, we’re proud to support athletes who race for something bigger than themselves.

Because when one rider rises, a whole community comes with them.

Article by Pump for Peace Racing and Velosolutions

Pictures by Deidre Cloete

Squirt Cycling Product is extremely proud to support the Pump for Peace racing team, and we wish them all the best as they set out to reach their goals.