There was no Ace up his sleeve in last night’s episode of Survivor SA: Philippines, when he was voted of the show.
Ace, the 28-year-old graphic designer from Johannesburg tried his level best to stay in the competition — however a tribe reshuffle left Ace’s future hanging in the balance.
Known as the show’s underdog, Ace was the fourth castaway to be voted off the island, with three votes to his name.
IOL Entertainment chatted to him soon after his departure.
Why did you enter Survivor SA?
I love the outdoors and adventure and 'Survivor', and it all came together in this show, so I entered. I didn’t think for a second that I’d be chosen, but when I was told, I was up for the challenge.
How did you prepare for Survivor SA?
It was more a mental preparation. And because I knew that I was not going to eat proper food for a while, I ate a lot more before the show than I usually do.
What was your strategy going into the game?
The one thing that I couldn’t be on the island was Adrian (Ace’s real name). Adrian is a kindhearted person who can’t say no. But Ace, my counterpart was in it to win it. I wanted to make everyone think that I was the underdog. He could manipulate his way through.
What did you learn while in the competition?
That I only have one life and that I need to live it. It was a great experience and it makes you thankful for all you have. I now do more outdoor activities with my two and four-year-old daughters because a balanced lifestyle is important.
Did you anticipate being voted off the island and the tribe reshuffle?
Definitely not. I played the game as I wanted to play it. But at the end I couldn’t maneuver anymore. I knew there was going to be a tribe shuffle because of food supplies being low, so that was not a surprise to me.
Any regrets?
Yes, I am usually very good at dealing with people, but the game got the better of me. Instead of convincing my tribe members to keep me on, I wasted time looking for the immunity idol. If I could replay that day, I won’t be undercover, I would have created a storm.
What was the first thing you did when you got home?
I went to Steers. I felt like eating a cheeseburger. Thereafter I spent time with my family. We went hiking and mountain climbing. I’m starting to expose them to new experiences.