Hickley raring to go at cross-country nationals
She finished fourth in the U15 girls' 4km race at the CGA cross-country championships to qualify for the nationals on September 6.
Emma Hickley’s grit and composure shone through when it mattered most, conquering one of the toughest sections of the CGA cross-country championships course on August 16 to secure her place among the province’s best upcoming athletes.
The Benoni Harriers youngster powered up the punishing hill opposite the Germiston City Soccer Club clubhouse, maintaining her momentum despite fatigue in the final kilometre of the U15 girls’ 4km.
“I told myself I’m going to catch them one by one. I focused on my leg and arm movement and less on how tired I was. I kept telling myself to keep going. It was a reward for all the hard work I’ve put in. The race was a good experience for me. I told myself to keep pushing in the last 1km because that’s what everybody did despite being tired,” she said.
Her effort earned her a hard-fought fourth-place finish and a coveted spot in the provincial team for the ASA cross-country championships at Kees Taljaard Stadium in Middelburg on September 6.
“I’m proud of myself because the hard work I’ve been putting in is paying off. I’m looking forward to representing my province, club, and family at the nationals,” Hickley said.
Reflecting on the provincial season, Hickley – known for her trademark smile even during tough races – called it a success.
“The plan was always to work towards qualifying for the nationals. The season had its ups and downs. I had some good races and some bad races, but I pushed myself. It was a good experience overall,” she said.
Inspired by her middle-distance specialist brother, Kevin, she started running at age four at Laerskool Rynfield.
“I look up to Kevin. When he got into it, he inspired me. I did it at primary school, and every year, I’ve improved. I like the atmosphere at cross-country and track-and-field events,” she added.
Looking ahead, the Hoërskool Hans Moore learner, coached by Richard O’Donoghue, aims to carry the same grit and strategy that propelled her at the CGA championships into the nationals, determined to deliver another standout performance.
“Coach Richard always tells us to look good, feel good, and run well. That kept me going all season. He also says that on race day, we must race and avoid holding back, hoping for a fast finish. I’m going to the nationals to give it my all,” Hickley said.
Also Read: Botha dominates race at league meeting
Also Read: BHAC coach to continue producing cream of the crop
