My journey (quite literally) with PVM started in 1998 when I was part of a very competitive Adventure Racing team. Being four strong all-round athletes, we quickly realized that there was (and still is) a strong correlation between speed in the right direction and the fuel that propels you. Back in the day PVM (Energy Dynamics) had a bar similar to the Energy Bar, called the Zone Bar – that we realized was lightweight and provided the necessary energy to help us maintain the speed in the right direction – of course navigation played an important role 😉
It was back then when I met the staff of PVM and realized that they were genuinely interested in their athletes and trough continuous communication and feedback improvements on the palatability and texture of their products ensued.
As a younger triathlete (read 2000 World Triathlon Champs) I moved in many circles and tried many products as part of races and discovered that in the longer races, which suited my racing style and genetic composition, that I needed a product that could sustain me for more hours than the average race. Even though the Octane gels (during the events and the Re-Ignite post events) were the perfect products for short fast racing, the combination of those with Energy Bars during the longer events, were just perfect. I am not a PRO athlete, however, have been tested for banned substances three times and did so with the knowledge that what I use to race will always pass the test.
I am now an age grouper with a little less speed and a little less time to participate and train, but the urge to race and compete is still there. I have learned over the years that everything that you do in preparation for an event, regardless of the distance or terrain, nutrition is key.
In my recent podium at Ironman South Africa (African Champs) I can honestly say that the fuel I took definitely did not make me faster or stronger, but it certainly made me last longer than my competitors. Ask me what my favourite events are and I would have to think about that. Just love to move!
