Klopperpark athlete targets stronger finish after CGA Provincials bronze

Ameenat Fagbemi is hoping to end the athletics season on a high note as she works towards competing at a higher level next year.

The 20-year-old Klopperpark resident recently competed at the CGA Provincials, where she secured third position in the senior women’s event.

Despite difficult weather conditions on the day, she persevered and proudly walked away with a bronze medal.

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The competition was made even tougher with the inclusion of international athletes, raising the level of competition significantly.

Fagbemi acknowledged that while she believes she can still achieve more, competing at the highest level after recovering from an injury has not been easy.

“I am still happy with the results. I am also looking to give back to the University of Johannesburg and represent them well in the upcoming university competitions,” she said.

“For me, it is about continuing to train. Sometimes I go against my colleagues because it helps build resilience.”

Speaking about the growing spotlight on female athletes, Fagbemi praised Tumi Ramokgopa for helping shift the focus towards women in the sport.

“When I look back to my high school, there were only three girls who took part in track and field events,” she added.

“Now there is a growing number of females lining up over the track,” said Fagbemi.

Looking ahead, Fagbemi hopes to further her athletics career by one day becoming a coach, particularly to support young female athletes.

She believes female athletes are sometimes misunderstood when coached by men due to the unique physical and emotional challenges women experience as they grow older.

She also acknowledged the support and inspiration of Akani Simbine, who continues to give back to Eden Park School, the school both he and Ameenet attended.