Heidelberg sisters reach national sporting championships in equestrian and wrestling

Two young Heidelberg athletes, sisters Liamay (9) and Amieke (7) Nortje, are preparing to take on some of the country’s best young competitors after earning places at national championships in their respective sporting codes.

The sisters, both learners at Laer Volkskool, have demonstrated exceptional commitment to their sporting disciplines, dedicating countless hours to training and competition to reach the national stage.

Liamay, a passionate young equestrian, competes alongside her horse, Waterford Chocolate, in dressage, equitation, and three-phase eventing.

Her hard work has paid off after she and Chocolate earned the opportunity to represent Gauteng at the SANESA National Competition at Kyalami Equestrian Park from September 26 to 27.

Liamay will also compete at the SANESA National Competition at Inanda Country Base in Kyalami on September 29.

Her participation at national level is a significant achievement and reflects her dedication to equestrian sport and her determination to continue developing her skills.

Her younger sister, Amieke, has made her mark in wrestling and has also secured her place at the SA Youth National Championships.

Amieke will proudly represent Sedibeng at the national championships, which will be held at the University of Cape Town on October 2.

The competition will give the seven-year-old a chance to test herself against some of the country’s top young wrestlers.

While qualifying for the national championships is a major achievement for both sisters, the opportunity comes with considerable financial demands, particularly with travel from Gauteng to the various competition venues.

The family is appealing to the Heidelberg community, friends, family, and supporters to help cover the costs of getting the young athletes to the national stage.

Funds raised will contribute to entry fees, travel costs, horse transport, a horse handler, fuel, toll fees, parking, accommodation, coaching fees, and food, drinks, and refreshments during the competitions.

The sisters’ sporting journeys represent two very different disciplines, with Liamay competing in the equestrian arena alongside her horse and Amieke taking to the wrestling mat.

Community support could help ensure that both young athletes have the opportunity to compete at national level and proudly represent their regions.

A BackaBuddy campaign, titled “Two Sisters, Two Sports, Two National Dreams”, has been established to assist with the fundraising effort.

Community members who would like to support Liamay and Amieke can contribute through the campaign: Two sisters. Two sports. Two national dreams ZA.