EC SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY COMPETITION TAKES CENTRE STAGE IN PORT ST JOHNS

The Eastern Cape Department of Education in partnership with the Department of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC) and Eastern Cape Schools Athletics, recently hosted the highly anticipated EC School Cross Country Competition at the Port St Johns CMC Golf Course. The event brought together 890 learners from across the Province, promoting physical fitness, teamwork and healthy competition. Selected athletes will represent the province in the National Competition in October in White River, Mpumalanga.

Bulelwa Lindani, Schools Health Safety and Learner Enrichment Deputy Chief Education Specialist expressed pride in the young athletes, highlighting the competition's value in nurturing their athletic talents and instilling life skills like discipline, teamwork and perseverance. "By offering our learners opportunities to develop their skills, we are building a brighter future for our Province's youth”, Lindani added.

Eastern Cape Schools Athletics President, Dalindyebo Nqadini praised the collaboration between the EC Department of Education and Eastern Cape Schools Athletics. "This competition is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our young athletes. I am confident they will make us proud at the national level”.

Bonginkosi Mbhamani, who is part of the Provincial team coaching staff expressed pride and gratitude to the Department and Eastern Cape Schools Athletics. “You have shown us what it means to be resilient, determined, and passionate about your sport. Keep pushing yourselves to new heights, and I have no doubt that you will excel on the national stage”.

In conclusion, DSRAC Deputy Director Sport Manager Anga Ngcebetsha thanked all stakeholders, athletes, and organizers for making the event a success, wishing the young athletes all the best in their future endeavors. “We are proud of you and believe in yourpotential to excel at the highest levels. We look forward to seeing the impact of

this competition on our Province's sporting landscape”, said Ngcebetsha.