By: Siphosethu Zimba

The Eastern Cape Primary Schools Athletics Championships recently took place at the Queen's College Victoria Recreation Grounds in Komani, bringing together around 800 talented learners aged 10-13 years from various Education Districts.

The championships were proudly hosted by the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) in partnership with the Eastern Cape Schools Athletics (ECSA) and the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC). The partners identify and nurture talent from school level, progressing to Circuit Management Centres, to Districts and then Provincial level where the best performers will be selected to represent the Eastern Cape at National level. This development pathway focuses on age-specific training, using available facilities to nurture growth.

According to the Learner Enrichment Deputy Chief Education Specialist Mpho Ngoma, the Department encourages all schools to participate in at least five sporting codes and in other learner enrichment programmes, providing a platform for learners to explore their talents and interests.

“Participating in athletics programs develops learners socially, emotionally and academically. It bridges the gap between classroom learning and extracurricular activities, fostering well-rounded individuals”, said Ngoma. Ngoma also added that the Department encourages sport participation at an early age to identify develop talent.

“ECSA Deputy Chairperson, Freddy Jacobs said that he was proud to be part of the Eastern Cape Athletics Structure, empowering learners to become confident, disciplined, and focused individuals. “Athletics helps learners balance their lives. It teaches them to prioritize schoolwork and practice. It helps improve focus and time management, these are essential skills for life”, said Jacobs.

Jacobs also highlighted that the EC team has worked hard to reach the National Championships that will be held in Germiston later this month as learners face bigger challenges as they progress to bigger levels. He added by stating that athletics fosters unity and cultural exchange.

Grade 7 athlete Bulelani Norman from the Nelson Mandela Bay District who won two gold medals for the Boys u13 Relay and Boys u13 200m events, setting a record in the 200m said that he was so proud of his achievements and to represent his Province at the Nationals. “This is exciting for me and I am grateful for this opportunity because it will also encourage my peers at school to see that athletics can also take you to higher grounds”, said Norman.

Simone Van Der Walt, a grade 6 learner from the Sarah Baartman District, enthusiastically expressed how proud she was of her District for winning so many gold medals. “I came here with some friends from school, and we all have received gold medals in our events. This will mean a great deal to our coaches as they worked tirelessly to get us here at the Provincial Championships. I am proud of every athlete that has made it to Nationals because I believe we have all worked hard for this opportunity”, concluded Van Der Walt.