Springs Striders trio set for Gauteng cross-country Championships
Three youngsters from the Springs Striders athletes have qualified for the CGA cross-country Championships after competing in the provincial league series.
Three junior athletes from Springs Striders Athletics Club will represent the club at the CGA cross-country Championships at Germiston Soccer Club on August 15 after qualifying through the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) cross-country league season.
Sion Schoultz, Raylan Olivier and Alissa Wolmarans secured their places by competing in CGA club cross-country league events during the winter season, which is required to qualify for the provincial championships.
Club member Charmaine Botha explained that qualifying for the championships is an important milestone for young athletes.
“To participate in the Gauteng Championships, athletes had to compete in four of the CGA club cross-country leagues,” she said.
The championships also provide athletes with an opportunity to progress to the national stage.
“Should an athlete finish in the top six at the Gauteng Championships, they will qualify for the South African Championships where they will represent both Springs Striders and Gauteng,” Botha said.
Preparation for the championships has been ongoing throughout the winter. The athletes have regular training schedules while competing in league events hosted at different venues across the province.
Botha has high expectations for Olivier, who has enjoyed an impressive cross-country season.
“Raylan has had a very good season, finishing among the top five in his age group at every league. He also competed in a cross-country league in Potchefstroom where he finished first. I expect him to make the Gauteng team,” she said.
She said having junior athletes compete in provincial leagues benefits both the club and the athletes’ long-term development.
“Competing in the CGA cross-country leagues prepares our juniors for school cross-country and keeps them fit during the cold winter months. Springs Striders is very proud to have juniors representing our club at these leagues,” Botha said.
She believes the experience also inspires the club’s next generation of runners.
“It paves the way for our future athletes. Who knows, maybe one day they will run the Comrades Marathon in Springs Striders colours,” she said.
