After a difficult week in which their community was once again thrust into the national spotlight following the murder of two policemen and two civilian women, Reiger Park’s young middle-distance runners wrote a very different story for the troubled Boksburg community at the CGA cross-country championships on August 15.

Backed by a passionate support system whose cheers reverberated around the Germiston Soccer Club course, the athletes put Reiger Park firmly in the spotlight for the right reasons, producing impressive performances against some of the province’s best runners.

For a community too often defined by its social challenges, the youngsters offered a reminder that there is another side to Reiger Park, one built on talent, determination and hope.

Adriano Jooste continued his impressive league form by capturing gold in the U10 boys’ 2km in a season-best 07:22, while his sister, Yasmin, claimed silver in the U13 girls’ 3km in 11:15.

Hermia Norman added another silver medal in the U12 girls’ 2km, crossing the line in 11:22.

There were also encouraging performances from track specialist Kade Booysen and Biondre Nappies, who finished seventh and 10th respectively in the U14 boys’ 4km in 14:34 and 14:45.

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Eltonay Hermaans also delivered an encouraging performance for the Reiger Park contingent.

Adriano, Yasmin and Hermia’s podium finishes earned them qualification for the ASA cross-country championships in Pretoria on September 5.

Coach Jadia Norman praised his young athletes for representing their community with pride.

“I’m super proud of them. They did well.”

Norman believes the athletes are part of a bigger race to change perceptions of Reiger Park and inspire youngsters in the community to choose sport over the streets.

“Reiger Park is not always negative. Look now, we’ve accomplished great things today. I want these athletes to paint a positive picture about Reiger Park – everyone wants that,” he said.

The provincial championships also carried special significance for Norman, who was forced to take over the coaching responsibilities after his father and mentor, coach Everon Norman, passed away earlier this year.

The loss disrupted the team’s preparations, with the season starting later than planned, but Norman was proud of how his athletes responded.

“We started the season late this year because my father passed away. I had to take over. All the athletes performed well and gave their best. I’m very proud of them.”

He said the youngsters had remained determined to honour Everon through their performances, regularly reminding him that they wanted to win and qualify for the ASA championships to make his father proud.

“They talk to me every day in training and want to make my father proud. Winning and podiuming at the provincial champs is massive.”

Norman’s message also extended beyond the medal winners.

“I also want to encourage those who didn’t place that their time will come,” he said.

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