Kempton Park runner earns CGA selection for national championships

Benoni middle-distance prospect Zandrèh van der Merwe has credited hard work and consistency for earning his place in the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) team for the upcoming ASA U16, U18, U20 and U23 track and field championships at Germiston Stadium from March 26 to 28.

The Hoërskool Kempton Park athlete did not expect to make the provincial team at the start of the season, particularly in a highly competitive age group featuring talents such as Bohang Qhoaisa, Ruben Kleinsmith and Ontlametse Maherry.

However, the former Benoni Northerns junior runner held his own throughout the campaign, capping off the provincial season with a respectable fifth-place finish in the U16 boys’ 1 500m.

“It feels really great knowing all the work I’ve put in has paid off. I didn’t expect to qualify at the start of the season – I just wanted to do my best and chase personal bests. I’m really happy with how it turned out,” he said.

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Competing in an older age group added an extra layer of difficulty, but the Benonian embraced the challenge, using it as motivation to elevate his performance.

“I’ve been running in an older age group, which made it more challenging, but it also pushed me a lot. Coming so close to a medal showed me that I can compete if I really back myself.

“I’m really thankful for my coach as well. He’s believed in me and supported me the whole way, and that’s helped me a lot. I know nationals will be tough, but I’m excited for the challenge. I believe in my ability and just want to give it everything I’ve got.”

One of the defining moments of his season came at the Gauteng Schools Championships, where he learnt valuable lessons about confidence and composure.

“The biggest lesson for me this season was to believe in myself more, trust my training and be confident in what I can do. I also learnt how important it is to stay calm in races and not panic.

“Another big thing I’ve learnt is to run my own race – not get distracted by others, but to stay focused and stick to what my coach has taught me,” said Van der Merwe.

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Looking ahead, the youngster has clear ambitions, including breaking the 4:20 barrier in the 1 500m.

“One of my goals is to run under 4:20 for the 1 500m. I know if I can do that, I can put myself in a much better position in races.

“Going into nationals, I know it’s going to be really tough, but I feel ready. I trust my coach, I trust myself, and I’m ready to give it my best.”