Clubfeet do not keep Allen Grove teen (19) from sports fields
Her dream is to qualify for and compete in the Paralympics
Allen Grove resident Michaela Minnaar (19) scooped four medals at the South African Sport Association for the Physically Disabled (SASAPD) National Championships 2018 in Bloemfontein.The youngster got silver medals for shot put and discus and gold medals for javelin and 100m.
“It feels great and humbling to have placed podium position in four of my track and field events. It wasn’t easy. I had to work hard but it all paid off in the end,” said Minnaar.
“I have been doing this sport for four years and want to continue working hard at it and master this craft.”
Minnaar was born with talipes equinovarus, commonly known as clubfoot, and has had numerous operations from birth to enable her to walk. She still battles to walk and stand for long periods. Although she can’t go through two hours of shopping without a rest, Minnaar doesn’t allow her disability to pin her down.
“I have always enjoyed playing different kinds of sports regardless of my condition. I played netball, hockey and ring ball and now I am trying out table tennis. I love trying out new things. I will not allow my condition to put me down,” she explained.
“A few years ago I was very ill and didn’t see a bright future for me, especially in sports, but my family and friends helped motivate me and as soon as I recovered, I went back to playing sports. I remember I was watching disabled sport on TV and told myself I can do it and my results at the championships made me realise that I can do more and get more out of life.
Minnaar’s classification for disabled in field events is F44 and T44 for track events.
“My dream and goals are to qualify for and compete in the Paralympics. I am working hard to get there. I love athletics and get an adrenalin rush from it.”
Minnaar’s advice to other athletes: “Believe you can achieve, because if you believe it, you will achieve it. Pray hard, keep on going, no matter what comes your way. Use all the negatives as stepping stones to greater things.
“Remember that Jesus loves you and He didn’t give you talent to waste but to use. Sport is a good stress reliever and it saved me from a low self-esteem and when I didn’t feel good. You are your own power.”
