Centurion athlete continues to seek higher accolades
Centurion boasts a vast pool of young talent making their mark in sports, and among those rising through the ranks is 21-year-old Riandré Botha.
Botha is a dedicated athlete from Highveld whose strength and commitment are propelling her into the national spotlight.
Her journey into athletics began at the young age of six.
She explained that what initially drew her to athletics, particularly the throwing disciplines, was the sense of personal growth and the satisfaction of seeing hard work translate into tangible performance.
'I participated in sprint races, but I discovered my true passion for throwing events when I turned 13,' she said.
'I love the individual aspect of the sport and being able to see how each competition reflects the effort I've put into my training.'
Botha described her neighbourhood as student-friendly and conveniently close to campus, which is especially beneficial for someone like her who is juggling studies and sports.
'I try to attend every class. If I miss a class, I inform my lecturers in advance and make sure to catch up on any missed work. If I don't understand something, I don't hesitate to ask my lecturers for help,' she said.
She said balancing athletics with academics hasn't been easy, but she has managed it by staying organised and communicating effectively with her lecturers.
'You're going to have days when it feels like there's no time, but planning ahead makes all the difference.'
Botha emphasised that her family, particularly her mother, plays a key role in supporting her dreams.
She mentioned that her mom does everything possible to attend competitions and encourages every decision she makes in her athletic journey.
'My mom is very supportive of my athletic decisions,' Botha said.
When preparing for major competitions, she trains at Hoërskool Zwartkop and Tuks.
However, when she is not busy studying or training, she enjoys coaching, where she mentors both primary and high school students in athletics, netball, and cricket.
For her, coaching is another way to give back and stay connected to the sports she loves.
Botha draws inspiration from Valarie Allman, one of the world's greatest athletes in the discus.
Like her role model, she is steadily building a name for herself.
At the recent Athletics South Africa (ASA) Championships, held in Cape Town from March 27 to 29, she won a bronze medal in the Women's U/23 shot put with a throw of 10.60m and a silver in the Women's U/23 discus, setting a new personal best of 43.70m.
Botha stated that the build-up to the championships required long hours in the gym and on the field, but she felt confident going into the event due to the effort she had invested.
'Participating in the championships was a culmination of every challenge, throw, and breakthrough.
'It was more than just a title or medal; it was a testament to the commitment, encouragement, and faith that brought me this far,' she explained.
She added that her expectations were to achieve a personal best in the discus and win medals in both events.
Accomplishing those goals left her feeling proud and hopeful for the future.
Following her stellar performance, she was selected to represent the Athletics Gauteng North (AGN) Senior Team at the upcoming ASA Senior Championships, taking place in Potchefstroom from April 24 to 26.
'I just want to keep improving my distance and see the results of the things we've worked on in practice,' she said.
Tim Verne, spokesperson for the Newbridge Graduate Institute (NGI) where Botha studies, praised her performance.
He noted that her recent achievements are not solely about medals but also about her consistency, discipline, and high standards.
'Her recent triumphs at the ASA Championships have been commendable,' said Verne.
'They serve as an inspiration to her fellow discus team members, competitors, and peers alike.'
He added that her commitment to both her education and her sport makes her an ideal role model for others aiming to pursue similar ambitions.
'She's a prime example of the value of education and dedication to self-improvement,' he said.
Cisna Botes, principal of NGI, remarked that Riandré's path is a shining example of what can be accomplished with dedication and purpose.
'She stands out for her commitment, perseverance, and passion, and her story is only just beginning,' said Botes.
Botha encourages young athletes in Centurion to believe in themselves and never give up, no matter how tough the journey becomes.
'There will be days when it feels like there's no time for everything,' she said, 'but if you plan ahead, there's always a way.'
As she looks to the future, Botha has her sights set on winning next year's U/23 ASA Championships, placing in the top eight at the senior level, and ultimately qualifying for the African Championships and the Olympics.
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