Young Mia dominates the cross-country season
Undefeated Mia Inglethorpe was crowned South African Schools Athletics Under-12 Girls Cross Country Champion
Mia Inglethorpe, a Grade 6 learner at Trinityhouse Randpark Ridge, has had a truly remarkable cross-country season.
From the very first race, she dominated every school league, showcasing her dedication, speed, and unwavering determination.
Read more: Running for a reason
Her outstanding performances led her to win the District 10 Gauteng North Cross-Country Championship and then triumph again, winning the Gauteng Championships held at Curro Sagewood.
Her exceptional results earned her a spot among the top six cross country runners from each province, selected to represent Gauteng at the Sasa (South African Schools Athletics) Cross Country Championships in White River on October 4. Facing a wet, rainy, and muddy course with a technical route, Mia proved her resilience and skill under challenging conditions.
She emerged victorious, winning the gold medal and claiming the title of Sasa U12 Girls Cross Country Champion, remaining undefeated throughout the entire season.
Also read: Wade Young shines at cross-country championship in Natal
Mia said that she was proud, as it had been her goal since she started cross-country to one day win the Sasa.
“I thought it might take me a few more years to achieve this, so when I realised, I had won, I actually could not believe it,” she said. “It was a very technical race, with lots of hills. It had been raining the night before in White River and the entire morning, so the route was very muddy and slippery, and a few of the runners slid down the hills. I did enjoy the route; it was a good challenge.”
Adding to the celebration, the Gauteng U12 Girls Team, with Mia as a key member, also secured the gold team medal, highlighting the strength and teamwork of the province’s young athletes.
The young athlete added that she has to put in a lot of hard work to stay ready for competitions. “I am incredibly proud of what I have achieved; every race has taught me something, and I remain motivated to excel even more in the sport.”
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