Polio survivor claims gold in Morocco

Clocking in at 02:08, two-time polio survivor Div Louw of Rynfield claimed gold in the Africa Continental Championships held in Morocco, on September 25.

Competing as a PTS-3 triathlon athlete according to Paralympic criteria, Louw celebrated his personal best results that included a 750m open water swim, 20km bike ride and 5km run.

“I set out to not only attempt to win my category but to also come in below the two-hour mark, which would have seen me qualify for the Paralympics,” said Div.

“As always polio had the final say and although I did not qualify, I reached my goal of sharing my story and raising awareness about the disease. I exceeded my own expectations.”

According to Louw, the competition was tough and the highly technical cycling route tested his mettle with a downpour of rain adding an extra challenge.

However, for him, the rain was like a shower of blessings from God.

“It has not rained in Larache for more than three years and on the day of the race it seemed like it would not stop,” he said.

“It felt as if God bestowed His blessings on every participant and the messages of hope as well as determination they carried in their hearts.”

With #endpolionow branded on his entire kit, Div believes that his message about the severity of the disease and Rotary International’s commitment in its fight against the resurgence of polio through its vaccination programme echoed through his participation.

“Throughout my life and the battle with polio, God’s grace brought me back to healing and I hope that my commitment to spread awareness will remain unwaveringly clear,” said Louw.

Div returned to SA on October 1 and will continue his work through his membership at the Rotary Club of Benoni.

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