Cross-country runner Corné de Fouw showcased his talent at the Athletics South Africa (ASA) national championships, finishing eighth in the men’s 4km.

The championships took place on Saturday, September 6, in Middelburg, where Central Gauteng Athletics claimed a gold medal.

The 20-year-old athlete has been making his mark in both national and international competitions, though not without challenges.

In August 2024 Corné received a four-year scholarship to the University of New Mexico, giving him the chance to compete and train in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

This opportunity allowed him to represent South Africa in various cross-country competitions and track events.

However, in December the same year he sustained an injury after competing at the NCAA Division 1 cross-country championships. The injury lingered for months and was compounded by the challenges of adapting to life far from home.

“I had a great cross-country season in the US and even competed at one of the best championships. I then got knee pains in December and I couldn’t compete in the 2025 track and field season, so I decided to return home in May and start a completely new journey,” he said.

“I arrived home and started slowly recovering from my injury, and luckily I was able to make it to ASA cross-country nationals. I’m happy with the results I received at ASA considering that I started from scratch when I returned home from the US,” he added.

Reflecting on his career, Corné recalls his early beginnings. “I started running at the age of eight,” he said.

Since primary school he has collected numerous accolades, winning medals in distances from 800m to 5 000m. He also represented South Africa at the 2024 World Athletics Cross-country Championships in Belgrade, Serbia, competing in the junior 8km. Locally, he has consistently excelled at the Roodepoort and Ruimsig parkruns, often finishing first or second.

Throughout his career, he has credited his faith as a source of strength. “I always give all the credit to God. He is my refuge and my strength in difficult times,” he said.

His advice to other runners emphasises consistency, discipline and humility. “Running is a sport that can humble you quickly,” he noted. He added that aspiring athletes should stay humble and committed, qualities he believes have contributed to his success.