Marais Viljoen’s Ashlynn Norman wins double gold for South Africa at AUSC Youth Games

Sixteen-year-old Ashlynn Norman, a Grade 11 learner at Hoërskool Marais Viljoen High School, has returned from Swakopmund, Namibia, with two international gold medals and a heart full of pride.

Competing at the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games from July 4 to 13, Ashlynn clinched gold in the long jump and the 4x100m relay, representing South Africa for the first time on an international stage.

Ashlynn, already ranked among the top 10 long jumpers in South Africa across all age groups, described the experience as both surreal and motivating.

“Winning two gold medals felt amazing. It was a surreal moment. I’m extremely excited and motivated to do even better,” she shared. “My first thought was to call my parents”

Although Ashlynn aimed to beat her personal best of 6.05m, the conditions in Swakopmund, including a different climate and the mental readjustment required, presented new challenges.

Still, her leap of 5.38m was enough to secure the win.

“The 5.38 jump was by far not my best, but I’m happy to have come back with a gold medal,” she said.

“When I found out I had won, I was stoked. There are never really enough words to describe how you feel at that moment, especially winning at international level. My first thought was to call my parents and share the moment.”

In the 4x100m relay, Ashlynn and her teammates worked strategically to maximise their individual strengths and deliver a strong team performance.

“Our biggest challenge was to run according to our strengths as a team, and I’m grateful that each member contributed their best.”

Representing SA and staying true to her roots

Wearing the green and gold kit was a proud moment for Ashlynn. True to form, she added a personal touch by wearing her Marais Viljoen socks alongside her national gear.

“It’s a personal tradition; my lucky socks. I always wear something that reminds me of home and the people who believe in me,” she said.

“The Marais Viljoen socks reminded me of the hard work and dedication that brought me here.”

Despite it being her first international competition, Ashlynn carried herself with maturity beyond her years.

“Competing internationally was incredible. It was a chance to test my skills against the best and gain experience. I’ve learned the importance of mental toughness and staying focused under pressure.”

Proud parents, priceless moments

Back home, her parents, Nataly and Graham, were overwhelmed with joy.

“We were beyond thrilled and proud of Ashlynn’s phenomenal achievement,” they said. “Winning double gold is a testament to her hard work and dedication.”

For the Norman family, the medals are more than just sporting accolades. They are symbols of generational pride.
“The gold is not just for her country, but for her family too. Ashlynn is the first in our bloodline to wear South Africa’s colours. We are so honoured to be part of her journey.”

Supporting an elite athlete requires daily commitment, and the family works together to maintain a balance between school, sport, and home life.

“We support her education and athletics while making time for bonding and family moments,” they said.

More than medals: A rising career

Ashlynn’s athletic journey has already been filled with standout achievements:

• U15 long jump champion – SASA High School Athletics

• U15 100m bronze medallist – SASA High School Athletics

• ASA South African champion – U16 long jump

World Athletics U18 rankings:

• 15th in long jump

• 77th in 100m

• 2025 seasonal bests:

• Long jump: 6.05 metres

• 100m: 12.01 seconds

• 200m: 25.47 seconds

The road ahead

Ashlynn is already preparing for upcoming local meets, including the Egoli Top 30, NW Top 30, Career Podium Meet, and a competition in Limpopo — all while balancing her studies and setting her sights on future goals.

“This is just the beginning. I’m grateful for the opportunities and ready to work even harder,” she said.