Kempton athlete to represent SA at world pole sports event
This will be the third time Jackson represents South Africa on the international stage.
'It is such a great honour to be representing South Africa for the third time at the IPSF Worlds, this time in a solo capacity for two categories. I do this proudly,' said Jackson.
The 35-year-old explained that her artistic solo routines earned her a spot on the national team.
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Her artistic pole routine is inspired by Faith Like Potatoes, telling the story of a farmer who struggles through drought before finally celebrating fruitful ground after rain.
Her artistic aerial pole routine explores the journey of a woman coming to terms with a life she never expected to want.
'I was ecstatic when I found out I had qualified. My scores were much higher than expected. It's such an unreal feeling,' she said.
Jackson, who has been doing pole fitness for 13 years, said her training includes warm-ups, pole and off-pole conditioning, stretching, and practising tricks and combos. She also incorporates calisthenics to support strength building.
She described the IPSF World Championships as a prestigious event featuring over 500 athletes from around the globe.
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'The athletes are strong and talented, and everyone comes together for the love of pole and aerial sport,' she said.
Jackson owns Phenomena Aerial Dance and Fitness in Glen Marais, which she opened in 2020. The studio currently has 25 students, and she says there is always room for more.
She credits her coach, Benita Bouwer – a recorded world champion – and her calisthenics coach, Dominic Lewarne, for their ongoing support.
'Training in winter is a big challenge. The poles are cold, and so is the weather, but thinking about the world championships keeps me motivated,' she said.
'I need to make myself and my people proud, keeping our country and its incredible athletes visible in the sport.'
Her goal for the competition is to deliver clean performances that resonate with the audience.
'A fair score would be a bonus. I'll keep training the best I can and ensure my tricks are flawless.'
She encourages aspiring athletes to find a studio and a qualified coach who believes in them, to put in the work, and to never give up.
'It's not easy, but you can do it,' she said.
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Jackson trains as often as she can, with each session lasting around two hours. She draws inspiration from top-level athletes as well as her newest students.
She is excited to experience the global talent at the event, be inspired by fellow competitors, and build new friendships along the way.
Jackson also noted that the South African team of 25 athletes is self-funded and needs support, whether through financial contributions or raffle item donations to help raise funds for the trip.
Anyone wishing to assist can contact Alana at [email protected] or the South African Pole Sports Federation at [email protected]
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