Former World Cup-winning Springbok captain Francois Pienaar’s son, Stephan, has set a new world record for the individual 24-hour row.
Stephane recently completed 267 001 metres during the Concept2 World Records, hosted by his high school, Bishops.
He beat the previous record of 265 494m, set by Charles Gruber from the US.
Stephane has also raised
R1.2 million for the Make a Difference Leadership Foundation, a non-profit organisation that was founded by his father.
After a relentless training period, and with one goal in mind, Stephane wanted to make a difference as well as raise a significant amount of money.
“My goal was to support the academic and leadership development of one talented scholar from high school to the end of their tertiary studies," he said.
"It was incredibly tough, but I am very pleased with the result and extremely thankful to all those who contributed.
"Mr Mandela once said that education is the most powerful weapon to change the world.
"There are so many young leaders out there that cannot afford a quality education, and I am incredibly honoured to be able to help at least one."
Bishops principal Guy Pearson said it had been the “greatest single physical achievement” in the school’s 168-year history.
Francois, too, was immensely proud of his son, adding: “It is insane what he did and very disturbing to watch as a father.
"It is hard to walk for 24 hours, let alone row at the pace he
had to in order to achieve this record.
‘‘Stephane wanted to achieve this goal to raise funds for the MAD Foundation; the funds he raised will go towards securing education and mentorship for a learner from high school through to tertiary education."
Stephane was selected for the junior national rowing team in 2016, which competed at the World Championships in Rotterdam.
To donate to the Make a Difference Leadership Foundation, visit https://www.givengain.com/cc/MAD2Row/