Geoff Brink

Izimvo is honoured to introduce freelance photographer and self-confessed madman, Geoff Brink.

Geoff set out on the 28th December to cycle from Durban to Cape Town, on a unicycle! The Heart & Sole tour is traveling across South Africa to raise funds and awareness for the anti-landmine organisation, The Sole of Africa.

Former Izimvo interviewee Fred Hatman, is supporting Geoff on the epic adventure and is documenting every kilometer at http://fredhatman.co.za.

Heart & Sole Tour Updates: http://fredhatman.co.za/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/The_Heartman
Location: Umdloti

Geoff was kind enough to answer the following questions:

Personal

Q: The all important personal profile. How would a close friend introduce you at a social event?  I.e. Name, age, company, interesting fact etc.

A: Geoff Brink, 38, Geoff Brink photography, recently learnt to ride a unicycle.

Q: Tell us something that not many others know about you. This could be anything from a phobia to your favorite movie.

A: I can’t deal with dog poo in wet grass. I used to sing in a choir. I can make over 32 real animal noises.

Q: What do you enjoy doing when you want to get away from it all?

A: I go surfing or bundu bashing in my truck.

Q: How would you describe your dream home and where in South African would you like it to be?

A: The one I am currently living in – wood and thatch surrounded by pristine coastal bush with sea view in Umdloti.

This question was proudly sponsored by Private Property

Heart & Sole Tour

Photos: http://fredhatman.co.za/

Q: You are about to set out on a unicycle across South Africa to raise awareness of anti-landmine organisation, The Sole of Africa. What was the inspiration for the adventure and why a unicycle?

A: The inspiration came from a higher source. A unicycle because nobody has ridden one this distance in South Africa before! I am currently over 600km into the journey to Cape Town! I couldn’t even ride a unicycle 4 months ago!

Q: Tell us about the logistics and training that has gone into the trip?

A: Logistics – not my strong point – hence the dwindling cash supply. Training – a couple of rides out to Ballito and Umhlanga – should have done much more, but I’m fit now after 3 weeks on the road!

Q: Which part of your preparation has been most difficult, the physical or the mental?

A: Obviously the physical is important, but you have to be even fitter mentally!

Q: What are your goals for the challenge and how long do you think it will take you?

A: Make it to Cape Town before the 8th May 2010 (my wedding date).

Q: What is the best way for our readers to get involved?

A: Please visit our blog at www.fredhatman.co.za we are running low on travel funds!!! Donations most welcome! Thanks.

Life in South Africa

Q: Have you or any of your immediate family been affected by crime? If yes, has it changed your perception of the country and the way you and your family live your lives?

A: Ja, I had an old 4×4 stolen 2 years ago, had no insurance so I was very unimpressed to see it go! But exactly a year later the boys in blue recovered it, and to my surprise it had been totally revamped – rust taken out, resprayed, new off road tyres etc, needless to say I was affected in a positive way.

Q: Have you ever considered emigration? If yes, where do you think you would emigrate to?

A: Yes – the republic of Umdloti.

Q: If you had the opportunity to sit down with the president, what advice would you offer him?

A: I would ask him to charge handsomely for public appearances, and then give him the bank details of the heart and sole tour!

Q: South Africa’s greatest export is?

A: Mrs Balls Chutney.

Life in Durban

Q: What do you most enjoy about living in Durban?

A: Johnny’s Rotis, the corner cafe, surfing sans wetsuit, no need for suit and ties.

Q: How have you found the response from Durban’s commuters when out training on your unicycle?

A: Lots of hoots, smiles and waves.

Q: Favorite spots for that all important carbo-loading?

A: The corner cafe in Glenwood, Durban.

General

Q: What are the luxury items that are accompanying you on your trip and what do you think you are going to miss the most?

A: Pillow, Braai grid, & an iPod (soon to be purchased or sponsored).

Q: How do you keep yourself motivated after a tough day on the unicycle?

A: More is nog-a-dag! Hot meal and my pillow.

Q: One book that you would make required reading for all matric pupils?

A: Stranger in a Strange Land (Robert Heinlein)

Q: Favorite South African brand?

A: Pro Nutro.

Q: Who would you most like to read about on Izimvo and what would you like to ask them?

A: Anyone weird, wonderful or original. Why are we here?

We’d like to thank Geoff for taking the time during his inspirational adventure to answer our questions and wish him every success for the journey ahead. We’ll be following his progress with great interest.

Geoff’s personal banking details are below should you wish to make any donations to the tour.

G. M. Brink
Standard Bank
Plusplan
Account: 056 706 804
Branch code: 042 626