From the orchard to the podium: Farm manager Jakob Volmoer shines at SA Athletics Championships

Farm manager and athlete Jakob Volmoer (39) has proven that passion, grit and balance can yield both top-quality fruit and national medals. At the recent South African Athletics Championships, Jakob claimed an impressive six medals across a range of track and field events — all while working as a production manager at Ouplaas in the Witzenberg Valley near Ceres, a farm that produces apples and pears sold by Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing. Jakob secured three gold medals in the 1500m, 3000m steeplechase, and high jump; two bronze medals in the 800m and long jump; and a silver medal in the 4x400m relay — competing in the 40–45 age category.

Hard work pays off

“It’s a proud moment,” says Jakob, reflecting on months of dedicated training after work hours. “I’m grateful to still be doing what I love at this age. The hours I’ve put in over the past year and a half are paying off — and that makes the effort worth it.”

While growing up on a pear and peach farm in the Warm Bokkeveld, Jakob’s athletic journey started at Morrisdale Primary School in Ceres. His early talent was recognised by local coaches Jannie Jacobs and Abba Zeroet, later nurtured at Ceres Secondary School under coach Hennie Moses. At just 17, he earned his first provincial colours for athletics.

Rooted in agriculture

In September 2023, he joined Ouplaas – a farm supplying apples and pears to Tru-Cape – as a production manager, bringing a lifetime of experience at InteliGro and formal training from AVCASA (now CropLife SA).

“Farming and athletics have more in common than people realise,” he explains. “Both require discipline, goal-setting and a deep love for what you do. Managing a successful harvest and preparing for a championship season both demand focus and perseverance.”

Calla du Toit, Tru-Cape’s procurement manager and proprietor of Ouplaas, says Jacob is often found running through the orchards, stopping for a quick inspection of the Pink Lady apples or checking on their colour development.

Training after a long day’s work is no small feat, Jakob admits. He crafted his own running route around the farm, including a makeshift speed track on a dam wall and scenic steady runs through the orchards. “The Waterkloof spot is my favourite — from there, you can see the whole farm. It’s peaceful, and it motivates me. Also, while running through the orchards, I keep an eye on what other people are doing and find new ideas to apply in my own production unit.”

Despite the solitary nature of his training, Jakob finds strength in his support system. “My wife, Le-Ann, our three children – Leequin (3), Jaylee (7), and TJ (15) – and my mom, Sophie, are my biggest supporters. I want my children to see that discipline and passion can take you far. Even if they don’t run, they’re learning that lesson.”

Calla describes Jakob as a humble, hard-working man who lives a disciplined life.

“He is an inspiration for all of us living on Ouplaas. His success is the result of absolute focus, commitment and dedication. And dedication always shows. I am sure he will continue to inspire the younger generation who loves the outdoors and is interested in working in the agricultural sector.”

Setting goals guarantees success

Jakob’s goals are far from over. After narrowly missing the qualifying standard for national colours this season, he’s already back on the track with his sights set on reaching that milestone next year.

His journey hasn’t been without setbacks. Several years ago, he was accidentally shot in the thigh — a traumatic incident that nearly ended his running career. “After surgery, my biggest fear was never being able to run again. But I pushed through physio, stayed positive, and used that experience as motivation. Now, I’m stronger than ever.”

Jakob also sees himself as a mentor for young people in both agriculture and sport. “Sport changed my life. It gave me structure, helped me stay focused, and it’s still teaching me how to grow. I tell others: Find what you love and go after it — even if you’re the only one doing it.”

As for farming, Jakob couldn’t be prouder of the quality produced this season. “Our apples and pears exceeded our quality goals. Flash Gala apples are a personal favourite — crisp and full of flavour. That’s what we strive for: fruit we’re proud to see on the shelf.”

Asked for advice for others walking a similar path, Jakob smiles:
“Eat apples, train hard, stay focused. Life is better when you do what you love.”