Manny Khumalo (25), a 100m sprinter who has been in the athletics fraternity for 10 years, is determined to represent South Africa at the Olympic Games in Paris in 2024.
He believes he can be part of the team because he is training with a top sprint coach, Werner Prinsloo, who also took Akani Simbine to the 2016 Olympic Games and 2017 IAAF World Championships.
“I also know that I need to train hard to achieve this goal. I don’t think it will be impossible for me because I’m the type of person who uses his gifts, talents and everything at his disposal to achieve what I set my mind to,” said Manny.
“My athletic career started in primary school and from there I never looked back.
“I attended Boksburg High School where I competed in prestigious athletics tournaments and went as far as representing the Gauteng Central Athletics at provincial and national events. Running has always been a passion and I intend to take part in a lot more field and track events to prove that I’m worth representing my country.
“In 2017, I had an opportunity to attend a Jamaican training camp in Pretoria, where I learnt how to grow and harness my talent and to be even a better track and field athlete,” said Manny.
“The organisers of the camp saw my passion and enthusiasm and choose me to participate in the Worldwide Scholarship Tour in Jamaica. Unfortunately, I couldn’t go due to finances and I also had an injury at the time.
“I was devastated because I had invested a lot to go there. That setback is one of the things that is fuelling my determination to go to the next level now.
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“I’m employed at Thrive Church in Boksburg where I lead the children’s ministry. I love working with children.”
Manny wants to dedicate his life to helping young people to reach their dreams and not be discouraged by their surroundings or past experiences.
“I need R35 000 to cover my Olympic Games preparations,” he said.
Werner said he has been training the athlete for the past three years.
“He is a man of faith; someone who believes in his abilities and is a hard-working and dedicated athlete.
“Danny has an abundance of energy. When he is focused on a single task, he is bound to succeed. He has a philanthropic nature and is always willing to go the extra mile to help other people.
“I am fully in support of any financial aid the public is willing to offer Danny,” said Werner.
If you are interested in financially assisting Manny, contact him on 062 435 2804.
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