The Bauers’ Last Chapter in Thabazimbi
Thabazimbi – Thabazimbi bids a heartfelt farewell to two extraordinary individuals, Dr. Gary Bauer and his wife Annie, as they prepare to leave the Bushveld for the Eastern Cape, end of Jan 2025. Their departure marks the end of an era, leaving behind an indelible legacy in both the world of archery and veterinary services, as well as on the trails of Mooivallei.
Dr. Gary Bauer, a name synonymous with excellence, has made Thabazimbi proud on countless occasions. As an active member of the Thabazimbi Bow Club and chairman of the Limpopo Archery Federation (2023/2024), his achievements have elevated the sport of archery to unprecedented heights.
Competing in the Freestyle Unlimited division, Gary has garnered international acclaim, holding titles such as:
- World Indoor Archery Champion (2023)
- World record holder for the Flint Round, Indoor Archery (2023)
- World Field Archery Champion (2022 & 2024), a title he defended successfully in Brazil
- Protea Team gold medal winner and World Team Champion (2023 & 2024)
Gary’s journey has been nothing short of phenomenal, with milestones including participation in the African Regional Field Archery Championships (2023) in Namibia and his qualification for the World Bowhunter Championships (2025) to be held in South Africa. His dream of holding all three major world titles — World Indoor, World Field, and World Bowhunter Championships — simultaneously, is within reach.
Beyond his sporting accolades, Gary has been a mentor and ambassador, introducing countless newcomers to archery and fostering a culture of excellence. His dedication has earned him national and provincial colours for three consecutive years and the title of Limpopo Sportsman of the Year in 2022.
While Gary’s archery achievements are celebrated worldwide, Annie Bauer’s contributions resonate deeply within the local community. Her “courses for horses” trail near Mooivallei has been a haven for equestrian enthusiasts, leaving unforgettable memories for riders and their trusted companions. Among these companions is Zebbie, the tame zebra who became an integral part of their outings, blending seamlessly with the herd and adding a touch of magic to every journey.
As the Bauers prepare for their new chapter in the Eastern Cape, the Thabazimbi community reflects on the footprints they leave behind — in the hearts of those who knew them, on the archery fields, and along the trails they lovingly nurtured.
Their departure is a profound loss for Thabazimbi, but their legacy will continue to inspire. With gratitude for the memories and pride in their achievements, we bid them a sad yet hopeful goodbye. May their journey ahead be as bright as the trails they’ve illuminated in the Bushveld.
Photo: From left: Nicki Kock (Cape Town), Dr. Gary Bauer: World Field Archery Champion 2024 (Thabazimbi), and Jaco van Vuuren (3rd, Thabazimbi).