Coach Oscar Chalupsky

The hidden secret of our stay at was discovering just how much more there is beyond the magnificent wines. 🍷

After an early start on a crisp 8.5°C morning, we explored parts of the estate many visitors never get to see. From the fascinating wine-making process and impressive cellars filled with aging barrels, to the breathtaking views of the Helderberg mountains, every corner of Vergelegen tells a story.

We were also fortunate to see some of the incredible wildlife that call the estate home, including Kwaggas, Bontebok, Eland and Ostriches roaming freely across this beautiful landscape. 🦓🦌

What makes Vergelegen so special is that it is far more than a wine estate. It is a place where history, conservation, nature and world-class winemaking come together in one extraordinary setting.

A special thank you again to Wayne Coetzer and his team for their kindness and hospitality, and to for the outstanding culinary experience.

If you think Vergelegen is only about wine, think again. It is one of South Africa’s true treasures.

What a wonderful stay at the magnificent .

We are fortunate to be staying in the beautiful two-bedroom cottage, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, history, and tranquility. Every detail has been exceptional.

This morning it was great to get up before the sun. A chilly 8.5°C, but absolutely beautiful. Feeling good and grateful to be able to enjoy the fresh air, the peaceful surroundings, and another special day.

A special thank you to , whose culinary skills are simply outstanding. Every meal has been a treat and a memorable part of our stay.

I would also like to acknowledge the kindness and hospitality of General Manager Wayne Coetzer. It’s the people who make a place truly special, and Wayne’s warmth and attention to detail have made us feel incredibly welcome.

South Africa has some truly world-class destinations, and Vergelegen is certainly one of them. We have loved every moment.

No Retreat. No Surrender. ❤️



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Yesterday I had the privilege of speaking to the incredible team at , a talk that was especially meaningful to me as I was once the top PPS salesperson in South Africa in the late 1980s.

I shared seven key lessons that have guided me throughout my life in business, sport, and my battle with cancer:

1️⃣ Set clear goals, write them down, and create a plan to achieve them.
2️⃣ Never stop learning. You are never too old to study, improve, and grow.
3️⃣ A strong positive mindset can help you achieve extraordinary things. For PPS, my goal was to achieve 100% of their API target.
4️⃣ With AI and technology changing our world so rapidly, we must learn to adapt and change direction quickly.
5️⃣ In every adversity, there is opportunity if you are willing to look for it.
6️⃣ Always put your customers first. Long-term success follows when you genuinely serve others.
7️⃣ Small gestures matter. A birthday message, a thank you, or a kind word can set you apart. Like compound interest, these small actions grow into something remarkable over time.

It was also wonderful to reconnect with my former Citadel colleague, now CEO of PPS, Izak Smit. Seeing him lead such a great organisation made me incredibly proud.

His message after the talk filled me with joy:

“Hi Oscar, thank you for gracing us today with your presence. Your talk was so inspirational. The standing ovation (x2) says it all. All the best, big man.”
— Izak, CEO PPS

I truly love teaching from the podium and sharing lessons that can help others achieve more in their lives.

In closing, my message remains simple: Don’t let cancer rule your life. Keep living. Keep believing. Keep moving forward with a positive attitude.

No Retreat. No Surrender. 💪❤️

What an incredible weekend away at Lodge and the amazing Restaurant. Truly a world-class destination right here in Paarl, South Africa 🇿🇦

From the moment we arrived, the peace, beauty and attention to detail were absolutely exceptional. The rooms are next level… honestly, you could be anywhere in the world. Waking up surrounded by olive trees, mountains and complete tranquility was very special.

A huge thank you to owner Richard Fisher and his partner for their incredible hospitality and for creating such a unique experience. We also loved the traditional braai at the lodge’s clubhouse great food, great company and great memories.

FYRE Restaurant was outstanding. Beautiful atmosphere, incredible food and one of those places you simply don’t want to leave.

Highly recommended if you’re looking for a special getaway, recharge or just appreciate world-class hospitality and design.

No Retreat. No Surrender 💪

What a special afternoon at yesterday.

I had the privilege of spending time with some incredibly enthusiastic young up-and-coming paddlers, sharing coaching tips, paddling knowledge and hopefully a few life lessons too. Seeing their energy, passion and willingness to learn reminded me exactly why I’ve loved coaching for more than 40 years.

Unfortunately I couldn’t paddle with them myself as I currently have an open wound on my head that needs to heal properly, which was frustrating because I was really looking forward to getting back on the water in my Waikiki.

After the coaching session I gave a talk to a packed Century City clubhouse about my journey through sport, life and my ongoing cancer battle. The organiser told me it was the biggest turnout they have ever had for an event there, which honestly meant a lot to me.

Moments like this remind me that even when your body slows you down, you can still inspire, teach and hopefully make a difference.

Thank you to everyone who came, listened, shared stories and supported the evening. And thank you to all the juniors for reminding me why sport is such a powerful teacher in life.

No Retreat. No Surrender 💪