Two athletes from Hoërskool Linden are preparing to compete in an intense athletic meeting after qualifying for the South African Schools Championships, scheduled to take place from April 9 to 11 at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg.

Learners Ameri Botha and Jeandry Opperman secured their places after strong performances that portrayed strength and endurance in their respective events.

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For Botha, who will compete in the U16 high jump, qualifying for the championships came as an unexpected, but exciting achievement. “It felt amazing. I was not expecting it at all. I have never been to the national championships before. This is my first time, so I am really excited.”

Botha gained her spot after finishing second in her event with an incredible jump of 1.65m. “It was really exciting, because this is my new personal best. If I did not jump it, I would not have qualified for national championships, so it really felt like a miracle.”

Opperman, a Grade 12 learner, will compete in the 400m hurdles after clocking second place in the event. Even though he has competed at the championships before, this will be his first time competing in the long hurdles event. “This will be my third time going to the national championships, but the first two times I competed in the short hurdles.”

Having found out about their qualification two weeks ago, the athletes have been in intense preparation for the national championships.

Botha said she spent much of the school holidays training. “I have trained a lot during the holidays and I am really ready for this.”

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Opperman added that his preparation has been extreme. “The training has been very hardcore, because I need to get fit for the 400m hurdles and strengthen my legs.”

Both athletes said it is an honour to represent their school and province at the national championships. “I am really hoping to achieve a podium place,” expressed Botha, “but even if I don’t, I think it is really just an amazing honour to be there to represent Gauteng.”

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Amerie Botha does the high jump, leaping over the crossbar. Video: Supplied #Randburg #athletics ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Opperman said he hopes to reach the finals or secure a podium finish. “I want to reach podium, or at least the finals, and just represent the gift God has given me.”

The South African Schools Championships will be an opportunity for top athletes to go all the way to the African Championships.

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