While most Gr 5 learners are settling into the rhythm of the school year, Drakensig Primary School’s Rolivhuwa Mudanalwo is busy rewriting the record books.

Following a breathtaking athletics season where he did not just win, he dominated, the young star, affectionately known as Roli, is now officially bound for the South African Athletics Championships.

The upcoming national event, taking place at the iconic Green Point Stadium from March 20-21, will see Roli compete against the fastest and strongest young athletes in the country. It is a stage he has earned through sheer grit and determination.

This season, Roli outpaced the competition by significant margins in the sprints, hurdles, and long jump, shattering multiple age-group records along the way.

Despite his “rocket” status on the track, Roli is far from a one-dimensional athlete. He is a versatile sportsman who excels on both the rugby and hockey fields, yet remains equally committed in the classroom.

Currently ranked in the top five academically in his grade, he is described by teachers as diligent, resilient, and remarkably humble.

His coach, Kyle Pretorius, who has been a constant source of motivation at every event, says Roli’s success is no accident.

“Roli is a very humble, kind, responsible, and hardworking young man,” says Pretorius. “The work rate that Roli puts into his athletics will shock most of you. He never backs down from a challenge and loves to prove people wrong, whether it’s in the classroom or on the sports field. This young man has a bright future ahead of him.”

Behind every great athlete is a strong support system, and for Roli, that person is his mom, Julia Mudanalwo.

She is the wind beneath his wings. As his biggest supporter, Julia has been a constant presence at every finish line, cheering him on from local heats all the way to the national stage.

While Roli dreams of one day representing South Africa at the Olympic Games, his immediate focus is on the Mother City.

“I want to at least bring home a bronze medal from the SA’s,” Roli shared, though his current form suggests he may be aiming even higher.