Success runs in the Makhethe family with the brother/sister combination flying the hammer throw flag in 2021. Phethisang Makhethe and her brother and coach, Tshepang, are one focused team with medals and records as part of their vision.
Phethisang recently broke the SA u.20 women’s record in the hammer throw. She threw an astounding 57.35 metres, which bettered the previous best of 57.13 m set by Annemie Smit in Sasolburg in 2010.
The previous record was posted in Sasolburg and the former HTS Sasolburg alumnus can now enjoy her first big taste of success in her post-school athletics venture.
“My main goal was not to break the record, so that was a real bonus. I couldn’t believe it when I broke it, so I was really happy,” states Phetisang. Phethisang, a first-year B.Com Industrial Psychology student at the NWU, is not only following in her brother’s footsteps but creating her own for women’s hammer throw in South Africa.
“Hammer throw is not one of the most popular disciplines in our country, but I would like for it to grow so that we can compete with the top countries,” explains Phethisang.
Her brother was also just as pleased with her record-breaking performance.
“We were just working on getting a gold medal. It is great that the amount of hard work we put in was worth the SA record, which was previously set in our home town,” he said.
Tshepang is a former SA hammer throw champion and current silver medalist at the senior SA championships in 2021. He also won the NWU Sports athlete of the year award in 2016.
“I enjoy my brother being my coach. We are professional on the field and focused on our discipline. He understands the sport and circumstances involved. I feel I can open up to him with anything,” explains Phethisang.
According to Tshepang, it is not always sunshine and roses coaching a sibling, but, at the end of the day, everything works out well.
“Even when we argue at home regarding the chores, we end up in a different mode in training. It’s all systems go. I am thankful to have her as my little sister. It’s great that she is so cooperative and I value her input. I really enjoy working with her,” states Tshepang, all smiles.
Phethisang also competed at the ASA Senior Championships last month and achieved a very respectable fourth place against the countries best hammer throw women. Chances are that she will break through on top of the podium in the years to come.
“The main goal going forward is to make the 70-metre mark and gain medals. It would also be an honour to represent my country at major international events.”
