Olivia and Russel: a modern day love story

Russel Symcox hit a ‘six’ when he married the beautiful surfer, diver and avid horse rider, Olivia Jones, four years ago. ECR’s Waheeda Peters sat down with them to find out if it was love at first sight…

Olivia is renowned for her commitment to educating the public about sharks and conservation issues facing our oceans and in making a difference and dispelling the shark fears of those who enter the water. Russel Symcox is a former Proteas off-spinner, surfer, surf ski paddler and experience Wave Runner rider, who is also passionate about making a difference by supporting various charitable organisations. Both love the see so much that they have settled down to wedded bliss in the scenic uMkomaas.

Celebrating their love for each other is important to both of them and although Valentine’s Day is another opportunity to celebrate how much they love each other it is no different from any other day.

“We don't really get caught up in the commercial side but do always share cards on the day. However if it encourages people to express their love for one another for at least one day of the year then so be it. Every day should be Valentine’s Day when you're with the one you love,” added the couple.

The sporty couple admitted that they spend a lot of time together sharing adventures and have similar interests so the flames haven't gone out.

“We try to spend most of our days together and we enjoy sharing adventures together such as motor biking, surfing, diving, trail-running and jet-skiing. This keeps things fun and allows us to maintain our sense of humor with each other. Marriage in the modern day is not easy and it's essential to keep communicating and to maintain a sense of humour,” said Russel.

Although they haven’t revealed any special plans for Valentine’s Day, Russel was not keen to admit to anything since he did not have anything planned but even if he did it would ruin the surprise if he told...The couple are hoping this year entails much more ‘couple’ time.

“Hopefully we'll have an opportunity to get away for a few days and spend some quality time together. Although we do enjoy many local adventures, it's often a hectic balance trying to run our own businesses, but a few days without work interruptions would be fantastic,” added Russel.

Olivia and Russel also admit that they are not really hopeless romantics but they try to accommodate each other and ensure they communicate as much as possible. Even though the two don’t have any major expeditions or adventures planned yet, living in the sunny Funsunzi allows them to do lots of fun things together.
“We love to surf, dive, ride bikes and do as many adventures as our free time permits,” reiterated the couple.

Russel and Olivia do advise any couple going on a thrifty date in Durban, to visit the Book Boutique, Amanzimtoti. It’s a wonderful spot for a first date to connect with each other and check out the vast range of books, of course!

For Olivia, she has a few favourite spots: like where she and Russell got married at The Estuary in Port Edward, Oribi Gorge for the views, Aliwal Shoal for the sharks and diverse marine life, and Mtwalume where their parents live.

Russel confessed that Olivia completed him, which is why he loves her so much and also believes the key to a successful marriage is to put God first, communication and having a sense of humour! For Olivia, her life would not be same if she had not found her soul mate in Russel.

“Strength of character, leadership, integrity and a big heart — all of these things is what I found in my husband,” she said. So for this couple, love is being with the right person, sharing similar interests, passions and most of all being spiritual!