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Rafeeq Safodien - UCI Level One Certified Coach, I have a genuine passion for cycling—my life has revolved around the bicycle since 1995. With nearly 20 years of experience across multiple disciplines, I’ve continually adapted both my fitness and mindset to take on new challenges. With a background in road racing, my interest in cycling has shifted to mountain biking. I have a particular interest and expertise in solo self-supported ultra-endurance/distance and adventure racing. However, I don’t pretend to have all the answers, but I know how to find them. My coaching is grounded in both experience and a commitment to ongoing learning, I understand the science of cycling and endurance as well as I can.

 

Where it started - I scratched from my first attempt at The Munga after getting lost in the Karoo, unprepared for the mental demands of ultra racing. It rattled me. But something about that experience stuck, and I couldn’t let it go—so I returned in 2016, more focused and determined. I was holding 3rd place late into the race when my Garmin failed just before the final race village. I had the route written on paper, but missed a critical turn. I lost composure trying to find my way back on track, and dropped to 7th by the finish. It wasn’t the result I was chasing, but it was a defining moment. I learned how much progress is possible when mindset, preparation, and purpose align. A few weeks later, I launched RIDEANDRACE to help others discover that same potential—on the bike and beyond.

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My motto - All accomplishments start with a decision to try.

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Who I would like to work with - I work best with people who prioritise health, performance, and long-term well-being—those who are willing to shape their environment and habits to align with their realistic goals. 

 

My coaching philosophy - Understanding your individuality and take into account your particular circumstances and plan everything down to the smallest detail or with some flexibility. I offer a human service; I coach people first, athletes second. My goal is to improve not just your fitness, but also your confidence, mindset, and quality of life. I form close working relationships with every RIDEANDRACE athlete, offering support that is built on trust, communication, and consistency. Regardless of the training solution you choose, ongoing contact is essential. While my response time may vary, I never place limits on how often you can reach out. The only thing I ask in return is commitment: 3-4 months of consistent effort. Because meaningful results take time, and the process is often slow, repetitive, sometimes boring, not always easy, and rarely glamorous—but effective.

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Race experience - 12hr and 24hr solo road (podium placer) and mtb racing, self supported and semi supported ultra-endurance racing, national elite level single day and multi-day stage racing. Having competed in many cycling events, the most memorable race is the 2018 Bikingman Oman, a self-supported ultra endurance sprint race, finishing 8th overall and achieving a personal best by completing a 1000km race in less than 3 days. A close second is a split between TheMunga in 2016 and Cape Epic in 2015.

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My mountain bike and road training and racing experience extends to - Criteriums, time trials, XC, marathon and multi-day stage races such as Tankwa Trek, Cape Pioneer, Wine2Whales, Giro Del Capo.

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