Former Chief Stew Carla Annas is heading to Southern Chile to participate in the Patagonman on Dec. 7, 2025, and is raising funds for charity in the process. Annas retired from the yachtie lifestyle after 12 years on board and created Community in Action (CIA), a charity movement supporting education in South Africa through sport. Annas is pushing her limits even further by taking on the Patagonman, which includes a 3.8-kilometer swim in an icy fjord, a 180-kilometer cycle with dramatic elevation, and a 42-kilometer trail run in the mountains. “When I read more about the race last year, I realized that entry is by lottery, only 300 people get selected each year,” Annas said. “I entered this year, never expecting to get in first time around but while in the airport flying home after leaving the yacht for the last time, I received the email to say I was in. It was perfect timing; I could use the next 9 months at home to train.” Annas is raising funds for the Beehive Bursary Fund at The Honeybush Collective Primary School. Access to quality education remains one of the pressing challenges in South Africa, according to Annas, so she decided to support the small primary school in Somerset West, South Africa. Her goal is to raise R100,000 by the end of December, with all funds going directly to the Beehive Bursary Fund, helping children attend the school. “I believe the school creates a unique learning environment where children can reach their full potential. Their approach goes beyond the basics, integrating creative activities, critical thinking, and problem-solving,” Annas said. “With small multigrade classes, they can tailor content to each child, creating a rich and engaging learning environment where curiosity and confidence flourish. When I walk in their classroom, it makes me wish I was back at school. I want all children to be able to experience this feeling, where they love being where they learn.” Since competing in her first triathlon in June 2022, Annas has competed in seven Ironman 70.3 races, four official ones, and three self-organized ones as fundraises for her charity. She started training for Patagonman in March, with hopes to scratch another off her list. “I love how I am able to combine my passion for sport and education into this fundraiser. I created CIA as although crossing a finish line is a great feeling, it isn't enough for me. I want it to have meaning for others,” Annas said. “Your WHY when doing an endurance race is what keeps you going even when you hit the dark moments in the race. I find it very important to race for more than myself as this motivates and encourages me to keep going.” Scan the QR code below or click here to donate now!