Blazing the tracks
Katlehong Athletics Club's (KAC) young runners Sinethemba Dludlu (22) from Kwanele and Kenneth Ngema, (26) from Nhlapho Section shared how the event was for them.
The Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) hosted their first track and field meet after the second wave of lockdown at the Boksburg Stadium on February 20.
Katlehong Athletics Club’s (KAC) young runners Sinethemba Dludlu (22) from Kwanele and Kenneth Ngema (26) from Nhlapho section shared their experience.
Dludlu said the event was overwhelming.
“I was nervous and ready at the same time. I managed to calm down before my race.” The sprinter ran in the men’s 100m race. “It was my first race of the year and I finished in 10.8 seconds,” said Dludlu.
He came first and achieved an impressive second place overall in his league. Ngema said he enjoyed the event although the wind made it difficult to run.
“You can never really say you were 100 per cent ready for your first competition, but preparations went well and I believe my fitness level was up to standard.”
The athlete said he placed third after a great start in his race. “This was my first race of the season; we will see how I progress as the season progresses,” said Ngema.
He added it was the year of the Olympics so they had to put in the hard work. Dludlu said his coaches inspired him to participate.
“They kept on telling me my speed was increasing and I need to compete to see where I am. The club made sure we were training and ready for competition.”
Dludlu said solo training was not easy. “We also trained as a team and because of that, we can push and encourage each other to do well.” Dludlu and Ngema shared their tips on how to participate safely during the pandemic.
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They both encouraged athletes to keep a safe social distance, follow government protocols and wear a mask. Dludlu advised runners to always have an extra mask in their sports bag.
“Athletes should always put on their masks unless they’re warming up or running. Rules say no mask during rigorous exercise. Sanitise regularly and sanitise your training equipment as well.”
Ngema encouraged runners to keep masks on at all times before they warm up.
“It is also important to keep safe outside of the training environment as well. These are difficult times for all of us and we have to do what the government is asking of us to survive.”
Chairperson of KAC Hloni Motloung said he was proud of all the KAC members who participated at the CGA.
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