It’s parkrun number 100 for young Tamica
“It was a dream come true to complete my 100th parkrun."
Thankfully, Benoni Northerns Athletic Club (BNAC) junior runner Tamica Lloyd enjoys the full support of her mother, Cheryl, who would go to the moon and back to ensure her daughter succeeds in her athletics.
Cheryl is a constant fixture at Tamica’s and her younger sister, Shayla’s races. She’s the driving force behind their success and her voice always echoes through the venue whenever her daughters take to the field.
“Supporting my daughter in her athletics is not just about cheering from the sidelines. It is about nurturing her confidence, discipline and resilience, as well as shaping her into a well-rounded individual who embraces challenges and values hard work,” said Cheryl.
Hard work shaped Tamica’s 2024. She represented CGA twice at national level – first at the national cross-country championships at the Izak Steyl Stadium in Vanderbijl Park in September and again at the sub-youth track and field nationals in Bloemfontein in December.
She ended the year on a high after running her 100th parkrun at Carnival City on December 14, where Cheryl, along with family and friends, showed up to celebrate the milestone with the youngster.
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“It was a dream come true to complete my 100th parkrun as it was one of my goals for 2024,” Tamica said.
The middle-distance runner, who specialises in the 800m and 1 200m, ran her first parkrun as a six-year-old at Ebotse, finishing in 47:37. Today she boasts a PB 22:40 achieved on the meandering trail of Carnival City.
Among some of the things parkrun has helped her with are fitness and the ability to navigate different surfaces like trails, cross-country and the road, as well as tracking her improvement weekly.
“It has helped me improve my running as the distance is longer. I’m able to set new goals each week and work towards bettering my time. Along with my weekly training, this helps to keep me fit and in good shape.”
Her plans for the year include remaining consistent and bettering her PBs in her cross-country and track events, as well as achieving PBs and her goals.
Cheryl will continue being her daughter’s biggest fan and ensuring she has the resources and emotional support to thrive.
“Together, we celebrate her milestones, dedication and growth that make all this possible.”
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