Double delight for young Joshua Broughton
He has provincial colours in athletics and has been selected in the team to represent Gauteng in the schools mountain bike interprovincial championship.
When a young athlete excels at a particular sport, there often is temptation to commit to that sport only.
It’s not the case for the multi-talented Northerns junior runner Joshua Broughton, who is excelling in athletics and mountain bike (MTB) racing.
After earning his CGA colours and representing the province at the SA national cross-country championships last month, the 12-year old’s now headed to the Schools Cycling SA (SCSA) interprovincial primary schools championship, on October 19 and 20 in Harrismith, to represent Gauteng.
“The selection came as a surprise as it’s only my first year. When I received the selection letter, I did a little fist pump. I can’t wait to gain exposure at this level,” he said.
This a big achievement for the rider in his first full year of MTB racing after spending years racing BMX bikes.
“I’m nervous but also excited. I’m not sure what to expect yet. After watching the Cycle Lab High Schools MTB Series, I know only the best will be at the interprovincials and will put on their best performance.”
The athlete prides himself on commitment, consistency and surrounding himself with like-minded people. He has found the right balance between his academics and extra-murals but emphasised that “academics always come first”.
“Everything I do has my sports in consideration. Right from nutrition to planning my day. My Mom, Maxine, makes sure I balance training, academics and other school sports, as well as time for friends and family daily.”
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Importantly, however, Joshua understands that playing different sports makes a far better-rounded athlete.
“My skills on two wheels were honed from starting BMX early. Running and cycling complement each other. There are days when it feels overwhelming but I make sure I train for both each week,” Joshua added.
He started racing BMX bikes as a five-year old, taking after his motorbike racing parents, Maxine and Justin. He showed incredible talent on the short circuits, proving the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
“I have been competitively involved in sport since a small child. I started racing BMX nationally from five-years old and recently started provincial MTB. Sport is needed to balance my life and keep me motivated.
“Running is a part of my lifestyle and my coach, Michael van Aswegen, is my life mentor. It’s a way of life. I love going from relaxed to race mode in a few seconds,” said Joshua.
As his star continues to rise, the Grade Six learner will keep showing up and racing like a beast.
He will, however, exercise caution in his approach because he’s still young and doesn’t want to burn out before reaching his full potential.
Also Read: Broughton victorious at league meeting
