#WOMENSMONTH: Athletics mom Sibongile’s energy fuels daughter to success
“Being a trackside mom has taught me that being there for my child plays a big role in her life.”
At every race – whether track and field, cross-country or road – there’s one constant presence cheering the loudest and giving unwavering support for her daughter.
Sibongile Nkosi is a devoted athletics mom whose passion for her daughter Gift’s running career knows no bounds.
Gift is the reigning national junior women’s 6km cross-country champion.
From early-morning training in Etwatwa to tense competition days across the province, Sibongile is always trackside, offering encouragement, motivation and the kind of love that fuels champions.
The East Athletic Club (EAC) members’ dedication extends beyond just being a spectator. It’s a testament to the powerful role parents play in shaping young athletes’ dreams and determination.
“The reason I’m committed to everything my daughter does is because she loves sports, and being there at every race gives her motivation to keep on pushing. I sometimes prepare her things early so I can be there as a mother to support and encourage her,” she said.
Sibongile is unapologetic about missing important community or family events to support Gift. Her cheers echoed throughout the Izak Steyl Stadium in Vanderbijlpark, watching Gift clinch the junior women’s title at last year’s ASA cross-country championships.
“Being there for each training session and race day has given Gift the encouragement to push and never give up in life no matter how hard the situation. Being her mother and biggest supporter plays an important role and has given her will to succeed.”
More than Gift’s biggest cheerleader, Sibongile is also her rock. An athlete herself – she competes in the master women’s 4km in cross-country – she truly gets the highs and lows of the race her daughter runs.
Sibongile, from Etwatwa, encouraged parents to be actively involved in their children’s extra-curricular activities.
“Being a trackside mom has taught me that being there for my child plays a big role in her life and shines the light upon what she does. As a parent, I always make sure that she doesn’t lose hope and know that I love her so much. Being there for her is amazing.”
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