Lee walks her way to the top

KwaThema – Lee Sue Nyathi (9) has taken local athletics by storm and it keeps getting better.

The Grade Four learner only joined Ulinda Athletics Club early this year, but she is already winning national competitions.

Last Saturday, she won a gold medal in race walking at the South African Championships in George.

“I always knew I was talented. My mother was a runner and I would always train with her,” she says.

Lee also competes in cross-country and most track and field events.

After coming in third place in the Street Mile at KwaThema Stadium on October 15, she is off to the finals in Tembisa.

“I want to travel all over the world and compete.

“I really enjoyed flying to George because it was my first time on a plane.”

Coach Moeketsi Moagi says he is proud of the young athlete and hopes she will inspire others.

“She has been doing really well and I just love seeing them in national colors. We have had many other young ones join the club and we want them to keep coming.”

Moagi says a few athletes have received sports bursaries and scholarships.

“At the end of the day, this is a result of our hard work and we are prepared to do more to make sure they succeed.”

After meeting Lee, South African Olympic medalist Anel Oosthuizen tweeted: “Great morning on the road bagging a gold in the Kwa-Thema mile and also spotting some amazing talent in this young lady!”

Hamba girl! (You go girl)