Northerns lands three medals at sub-youth champs
Nolwazi Magwaza grabbed a silver while both Mila Rossouw and Bokamoso Nonyane finished third in their events.
Nolwazi Magwaza led the Benoni Northerns Athletic Club (BNAC) charge with a blistering performance in the U9 girls’ 600m at the ASA sub-youth track and field championships at MacArthur Stadium in Potchefstroom from December 5 and 6.
Representing Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) Magwaza, winner of the provincial title on November 22, clocked 01:50.99 to finish second behind Athletics Mpumalanga’s (AMPU) Amy de Wet, who clinched the national title in 01:48.74.
Despite a tough race in the U11 boys’ 1 200m, CGA champion Bokamoso Nonyane clinched the bronze medal in 03:45.31, as CGA dominated the podium in this race after Anro Gouws won in 03:43.60 and Kungawo Madikane secured the silver in 03:44.29.
Pentathlete, Mila Rossouw, added the BNAC’s third medal after securing the bronze in the U13 girls’ pentathlon.
The 13-year old leapt 03.89m in the long jump, clocked 12.97 seconds in the 75m hurdles and cleared 1.25m in the high jump. She also threw 5.78 in the shot put and clocked 02:30.40 finish on 2 150 points and secure third place.
Also Read: In Pictures: The ASA sub-youth track and field championships
The trio’s coach, Nkanyiso Mthembu, lauded the athletes, saying it was a performance he expected from them.
“I’m happy with their performances. When they come back, we’ll go back to the drawing board and try to correct some minor issues in preparation for next season,” he said.
Mthembu was particularly impressed with Rossouw, who won the provincial pentathlon title in November, saying the youngster’s performance was a long time coming.
“Mila had not qualified for the nationals in a long time. We pushed hard at training. The way she carried herself throughout the season made me happy. She displayed bravery throughout.”
“Overall, I’m happy for my athletes and everyone who represented the BNAC. All the medals are for the club. Everyone represented the club with pride. Thanks to the parents as well for their unwavering support,” added Mthembu.
Also Read: Northerns’ Magwaza grabs bronze in first cross-country nationals
