Long jumper hopes to become professional athlete

Young local athlete, Maphuti Molele of Northview Christian Academy is confident that his talent, perseverance and commitment would ensure that he competes on the international stage and be counted among the top athletes in the world in the near future.
Maphuti was among the athletes who battled it out for a spot in the Limpopo team during the provincial athletics meeting held at the old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday. He, however, lost a ticket to the nationals after finishing fourth in long jump for boys’ u.13. He was positive that he would secure a spot in the provincial team as he had finished first during the Ironwood, cluster and district athletics meetings. At the previous competitions he participated in long jump, 100 m and 200 m codes but only made it to the provincial round in long jump. His best distance is 5,12 m
in long jump and 13 seconds in the 100 m. Maphuti has won a total of 15 medals, three silver and 12 gold as well as three trophies thus far and he is hoping to win more as he indicated that rewards keep him focused and motivated.
He was supposed to compete at the nationals in 2017 but he was allegedly given wrong dates by the organisers. Maphuti emphasised that he was disappointed but this didn’t demoralise him. “I want to become a professional athlete in the future and participate in international challenges. My personal trainer, parents and educators keep me motivated and I want to thank them for their continued support. As I will be joining secondary school next year, I will continue taking part in athletes,” he explained.
Maphuti encouraged aspiring athletes to train every day to improve on their performances and count the steps if they want to excel in long jump.
His mentors Lizelle Coetzer and Danel Reynders stated that the school was lucky to be associated with such a committed, talented and hardworking athlete and said that they will miss him next year. They would like to see his name among the top athletes in the world in the future, are proud of him and wish him best of luck in the future they both said.

Story and photo: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za