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Fireside Conversations: What do you do when the wheels come off?
Fireside Conversations: What do you do when the wheels come off?
A candid interview with Bobby Behan, head of Specialized Bicycles in Africa
In October 2022, we had a great Fireside Conversation at the Specialized HQ in Stellenbosch. Set against the backdrop of the Stellenbosch mountains, a dusky setting at Blaauwklippen provided a great insight into how the bicycle industry works in South Africa, what the challenges and opportunities are.
We dived off into stories about the late, great Burry Stander, we discussed the way forward for MTB stage racing in South Africa and the emergence of then only one time Cape Epic winner - Matt Beers (who has since won twice more).
The guests were also regaled by Bobby's tales of selling Oakley's in Ireland and marrying a South African. The challenges of hosting world class athletes in Stellenbosch and the way in which South Africa is uniquely positioned to become a global training hub due to the unique combination of a Southern Hemisphere setting, good weather, world class trails and swimming facilities, relatively cheap operating costs for international athletes and a direct flight to almost any European country.
It is the unique insights that I gained here, coupled with the depth of preparation that motivates me to be a better speaker, interviewer and commentator, every time I enter the arena of holding people's attention.
Below is a link to the entire conversation on YouTube, recorded, mixed and uploaded by the amazing team at Skuurpapier Productions
All Things Stellenbosch University
All Things Stellenbosch University
In September of 2022, we had our first Fireside conversation.
Our guest, the Registrar of Stellenbosch University, a personal hero of mine and friend: Dr Ronel Retief. We were accommodated in the Cellar of Lanzerac wine farm, which provided an amazing backdrop for an evening of great food, great wine and exceptional conversation.
Ronel was able to give all that attended a detailed insight into the day to day running of the University, how decisions were made, the challenges of navigating the media in a diverse and often sensitive area of higher education. Moving away from the legacy of the past and building towards the future.
She also gave an exceptional first person account of what it is like being the only woman on the Rectorate at that time and meeting celebrities in her role, while still making time for family, friends and fellowship.
The event would not have been possible without the service and willingness to work together of Lanzerac General Manager - Tiaan Lategan and his incredible events manager - Lourensia Bronkhorst.
From venue, to food, to wine, we could have been in any millenia old cellar in Western Europe, but were lucky enough to enjoy this evening in Stellenbosch and in excellent company.
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