Good Samaritan to sponsor barefoot runner

When Masilo Madidimalo, 15, from Botlokwa Athletics Club stepped up to the starting line for the seventh annual Mayoral Road Race he was completely unaware of the good fortune awaiting him.
Masilo, a Grade 7 learner at Khunwana Primary School, was about to run the 5 km fun race barefoot for lack of suitable shoes. He was spotted by Polokwane Executive Mayor, Thembi Nkadimeng where she pledged that the municipality would adopt him.
Masilo, who regards himself as a regular long distance runner, told Polokwane Observer that running was his talent and that he wished to compete in international athletics meetings in future. He said he doesn’t have proper running gear but emphasised that it won’t stop him from doing what he loves the most. After the race, Masilo also participated in the mass aerobics session.
Local business­person and SA Run 4 Cancer Chairperson, Tom Sedibe has undertaken to provide Masilo with a voucher to purchase Nike footwear. He also pledged to sponsor Masilo with a complete set of Nike running gear for him to participate at the SA run 4 Cancer Ultra Marathon to be held in the city on 27 October. He said he will settle all the expenses for Masilo to participate in the race. Sedibe encouraged Masilo to prepare for the 21 km race adding that he sponsored ten athletes for the item last year. He urged residents to take sport seriously and pleaded with businesspersons to sponsor athletes where possible.
Botlokwa Athletics Club coach, Johannes Motheta said the club doesn’t have any sponsors and that most athletes affiliated to the club don’t have proper running gear. He went on to say that many of their members are from poor family backgrounds. He uses his bakkie to transport them to various athletics meetings.
The club has at least 21 members and Mothetha appealed to companies to assist them financially. He thanked Polokwane Municipality and Sedibe for reaching out to Masilo adding that the young athlete has potential and could one day represent the country in international championships.

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