Author Archives: Cresi Heslop

Fresh & Hungry – Abigail Meder

October 14, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Abigail Meder is a rare and sought after gem of a young athlete. She is strong, grounded, balanced and a positive change maker right where she is in her life and in her swimming journey. She has a wonderful attitude that says – ‘I will not be out worked’. Abi is not only a champion swimmer but one who impacts her world positively by her leadership, her dignity and her deep faith in God. She is also proudly big sis to another brilliant swimmer Rebecca Meder.

When asked who she is she said “I am a hard worker. I am disciplined, self-motivated and I don’t give up. My aunt calls me her Princess Warrior because I am determined to overcome all obstacles thrown my way. I am Christian and a daughter of the living God. I believe that I am a leader and I lead quietly by example”.

After reading Abi’s interview I say once again: the wisdom of our young athletes amazes me all the time. This on its own gives me hope for our Nation’s future.

Photo Credits: Neville Bailey

Athlete: Bio / Stats
Name & Surname	Abigail Meder
Nick Name	Abi
Date of birth	11 October 2000
Place of birth	Cape Town
Current City	Cape Town
Height	175cm
Shoe Size	8
Club	Tygerberg Aquatics
Coach’s Name	Bianca Marais
Out of Country events	I am still praying that I will one day be chosen to represent SA
Secondary Sport/ sports	I used to play hockey
Favorite City	Cape Town
Favorite Song/ type of music	I have many, they are mostly Christian songs
Favorite Movie	I love Romantic comedies I love the Christian movie, Facing the Giants
School & Grade	Edgemead High School, Gr 10
Sponsors	Speedo
Twitter and Instagram	Instagram/twitter: @abigailmeder
Community / church projects involved in	I attend Edge Church in Edgemead
Parents Names, siblings	Mom: Josette Meder Dad: Justin Meder Sister: Rebecca Meder

INTERVIEW:

Q: You are passionate and doing so well in your Swimming tell me a little bit about how you started in Swimming and your journey in the Swimming arena up to now?

I have always loved the water. I feel the most alive while I am swimming. I started swimming for my primary school’s swimming team in Gr 1 and loved it. Halfway through Gr 4 I asked my parents if I could start swimming training privately. I never dreamt that I would be where I am today. I started training with Bianca Marais when I was 9. I have trained, worked very hard and sacrificed a lot to get to where I am today.

Q: Who are you? Describe yourself as a person.

I am a hard worker. I am disciplined, self-motivated and I don’t give up. My aunt calls me her Princess Warrior because I am determined to overcome all obstacles thrown my way. I am Christian and a daughter of the living God. I believe that I am a leader and I lead quietly by example.

Q: What is the highest accolade that you have achieved in Swimming and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?

Last year I won gold for girls u/14 200back at Level 3. I also qualified for Senior Nationals and made the final for the Women’s 200back.

This year I won 2 silver medals at Level 3. I once again qualified for Senior Nationals and made finals for all my events. My highlight was winning gold at Seniors for the 4 x 200fr Women’s relay. Having Becky, my sister, on my team made it even more special.

Q: You did brilliantly at this year’s Olympic Trials / SA Nationals, How did you experience it? Lesson learned?

The atmosphere at Senior Nationals this year was amazing because it is an Olympic year. It was very exciting to witness the swimmers qualify for Rio. I felt confident going into Seniors as I competed in all the Grand Prix Series this year. I was very happy with my results.

Q: Why do you have so much love and respect for your coach?

I love Bianca Marais. She is an awesome coach who sacrifices so much for her swimmers. She is not only an amazing coach but an amazing person too. She leads by example and is a wonderful role model. She encourages us and motivates us. She teaches us life skills and not only swimming skills. She is always willing to listen and I know that she is always there for me.

Q: In your opinion, what is the value of Education in a young person’s life?

Education is vitally important. We can’t swim forever and we need to be able to support ourselves one day. Ironically I find that my swimming helps me with my school work. Swimming has taught me to manage my time properly and prioritize. My mom is a teacher and she always tells me that it is not one’s aptitude that counts but one’s attitude.

Q: Would you like to share a little bit more about your faith journey and how it has affected your life / sports?

I have been privileged enough to grow up in a Christian home. I gave my life to the Lord when I was 5 years old. I always pray and listen to Christian music before I race. This helps me to be calm and to focus. My heart’s desire is that people will see God’s light shining through me. There have been many races where I really felt God’s presence.

Q: What do you do to relax?

I catch up on my sleep and when I am able to I watch tv. In the summer holidays I love to go camping with my family. My favourite place in the world is the beach.

Q: One thing about you that the world does not know J

I love music BUT ironically I am tone deaf. I really cannot hold a note.

Q: What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

“ I breathe in my courage, and exhale my fear.”

Q: What is your favourite Bible / Scripture quote?

“For those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not grow faint.” Isaiah 40:31

“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

Q: In your opinion, how do you define success in life / how do you define a successful person?

I don’t think success is defined by money or material objects. I think that one’s success is determined by their perseverance and determination. I also believe that if you can look back on your life and you have been surrounded by family and friends who love you, then you have had a successful life.

Q: What’s your WHY ? Why do you do what you do?

I believe that God has given me a talent and I would like to use what God has given me in my hands to reach others. We need to face our fears head on. When we fall, we need to get up, dust ourselves off and keep going. It is important to form your identity and self-worth in Christ and not in earthly things, sport, school, etc.

Thank you so much for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for your journey ahead. We look forward to following you as you go from strength to strength. Blessings!

NB – All images were supplied by the athlete to Heslop Sports. If there are any images that are not credited correctly, please email info@heslopsports.co.za with the details and we will gladly do so immediately.

Home Interviews Sports Swimming

Olympic Moms – Ronel Reid

October 13, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Honoured to chat to brilliant, loving and supportive mom, and woman of excellence and creativity Ronel Reid. She is proudly mom to SA Olympian Christopher Reid who had his debut Olympics in Rio de Janeiro this August. I recently had the good pleasure of meeting her in Rio where she passionately supported her champion son.

Ronel has a stunning blend of entrepreneurial and family spirit and has found a way to manage her brand of Lycra Wear successfully and still put her children’s needs on the top of the list. Ronel stands strong after the passing of her husband and daily strives to keep her promise to her late husband to raise and support their kids to realise their dreams.

Q: BEFORE RIO OLYMPICS

Your son, Christopher Reid, has just qualified for the Rio Olympics. Congrats! What is on your heart and mind right now concerning this amazing achievement?

I am relieved. It has been a lifelong dream for him. He is so passionate in his goals and I am so happy he has achieved them. It has been a lonely road, but my husband and I have always taught and advised him to stay humble, and simply to do his talking in the water. It’s all about who touches the wall first.

You have your own brand / range of swim suits and dance wear. Congrats! Tell me more about it.

I was actually a qualified teacher, but when I had my children I wanted to be at home. As they grew I started making costumes for them, their friends….and then realized….hold on…. there is a market. Kids always need a costume, they grow, the costumes perish and I can have fun with creativity :-).

When did you first know this is what you wanted to do?

It isn’t something I planned. As my children grew they needed outfits etc. Their 1^st costume, their

1^st ballet costume, and then their friends wanted the same. That’s when I saw the gap in the market. It started out as fun and grew into a brand.

Tell me about your career journey / (experience) up to this current point.

I started by making costumes for my children; then progressed to selling them at craft markets, and now I have a studio which produces custom designs. I love the originality and customized design and manufacturing of my goods. I am a perfectionist. It must fit perfectly and it must be unique. I don’t ever repeat a design. I love the challenge of making something special.

What have been the highlights?

I love designing for a particular dance studio here in Port Elizabeth. The teacher challenges me to my utmost potential. I just love it as I take the bait and create J Plus making bright, fun speedos for my son, whether he wants them or not. 🙂

What’s the best part of your job / business?

I am my own boss, so can dictate my hours, because my children will always come first.

What is the most Challenging part?

Not reacting negatively when clients think one is available 24/7.

What is your typical day, or maybe week if days are very different?

Now that Christopher is training in the USA, my “Mom’s taxi” schedule has improved tremendously. I still have our youngest daughter, Hannah at school in GR 10. She is in the 1st water polo team at her school, so they train sometimes 5 days a week in high season. So now my work revolves around her schedule. My older daughter is luckily independent of me.

What are your other interests / or do to relax/ have fun?

I love my home, my children and don’t venture out much. I put the needs of my children 1^st. Having lost my husband to cancer 2 and half years ago, I am Mom and Dad. I, too am trying to fulfil a promise I made to my precious late husband. Our children are the highlight of our lives. So my immediate family is very precious. A few precious friends have crept into our very private circle, trying to help me. I cannot express enough how much I appreciate them.

As a mom, how do you manage to balance your family and career life. Your tips and tricks: advice for other moms?

My tip: to survive…learn to say NO

My trick: I walk away from negativity. I try to remain positive.

My advice: Keep your private life private

What lessons have you learned from Christopher?J

Determination, the will to succeed and the drive to do well, makes all things possible.

How do you see the journey ahead for your brand / business?

Life is a journey. You never know what tomorrow brings

Contact details for your business?

Email : lycraswim@gmail.com

Anything else you would like to share?

Darryl and I were blessed with 3 beautiful talented children. Nothing comes easy. What you put in, is what you will reap. So proud that I can call myself their MOM.

Thanks so much for taking the interview! We wish you all the best on the exciting journey ahead. Blessings.

Athletics Home Interviews Olympics 2016 Rio Sports

Olympic Champions – Akani Simbine

October 8, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Akani Simbane, 100m athletics speedster and young star just recently made history at the Rio Olympics when he ran an absolutely phenomenal race alongside athletic legend and giant Usain Bolt. At this his debut Olympics, Akani finished brilliant and strong at a 5^th position with 9.94 in a very exciting and momentous race. A race that has not seen a South African in 84 years since Danie Jourbert in 1932!

This young man is on everybody’s tongue, with our nation’s hopes fully upon him for more stellar performances in the future. Exciting times indeed to be part our nation’s sporting history. Akani is quiet, confident, and depends much on his mental strength and faith for his victories. When I asked him at what point a hero becomes a competitor (Usain Bold) he said “I was initially star struck but now I just see him as a fellow athlete. He is humble and a great guy, we speak often.”

About himself he says “I am cool, calm and collected. I would describe myself as an introvert but am open to venturing out of my comfort zone to experience more thrill seeking adventures, like bungee jumping or skydiving”.

All photo Credits below go to Panasonic South Africa

Athlete: Bio / Stats
*Name & Surname*	Akani Simbine
*Nick* *Name*	AK
*Date of birth*	21 September 1993
*Place of birth*	Johannesburg
*Current City*	Johannesburg & Pretoria
*Height*	1.76 m
*Weight*	74 kg
*Shoe Size*	8
*Club*	Tuks/HPC
*Coach’s* *Name*	Werner Prinsloo
*Out of Country events/ meets (most recent)*	Istvan Gyula Memorial Meeting in Budapest
*Favorite Song/ type of music*	Hip-Hop
*Favorite Movie*	The Italian Job
Tertiary Inst Name	University of Pretoria
Tertiary degree	Information Science
*Sponsors*	Adidas; PVM; Panasonic South Africa;

Twitter

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter: @Akani_Simbine

Instagram: Akani_Simbine

Facebook: @AkaniSimbineOfficial

INTERVIEW:

Q: BEFORE RIO OLYMICS:

You have realized a life long dream to qualify for the Rio Olympics early in your lifetime. Congrats and well done. What is on your heart and mind right now concerning this qualification?

Thank you, the only thing on my heart is being focused and training exceptional well. I just want to eat good and be in a good mental place as well. Once I have established and perfected these everything else will fall into place.

Q: AFTER RIO OLYMICS:

You did brilliant at Rio Olympics – your thoughts?

Rio was amazing. Being able to live out my goals and dreams was such a huge blessing. I got to be in the Olympic 100m final and that was really something special. Placing 5th in the final was so motivating for me as I start looking towards the future.

Q: What did it feel like on the night that you became a history maker by doing a Sub-10 second race in the 100m sprint?

I was shocked initially and so I had trained hard but it exceeded my goals for the race and I was very happy about that.

Q: Why do you have so much respect for your coach?

My coach Werner Prinsloo and I just connect in that we are very similar in a lot of ways, which means I relate to him more closely. This makes our interaction so special. I have great respect and admiration for him as he is a huge contributing factor to me making it thus far.

Q: At one point does an athlete’s hero’s become their competitors in mind and in body, and is this transition easy?

I recall a recent experience of meeting, training and competing with Usain. It was an experience that I will definitely be on my top ten highlights for the year. It was very different to the first time I had encountered him on the track in the Commonwealth Relay (2014). I was initially star struck but now I just see him as a fellow athlete. He is humble and a great guy, we speak often.

Q: You have put one of our dorpies / townships called Tembisa on the world map ☺ – how was the reaction / reception of your hometown after all your stellar performances?

Everyone was happy and proud of me and they stay supporting me.

Q: Who are you?

I am cool, calm and collected. I would describe myself as an introvert but am open to venturing out of my comfort zone to experience more thrill seeking adventures, like bungee jumping or skydiving. When I’m not training or at varsity I’m usually stuck behind a screen; playing video games or watching series and movies.

Q: Would you like to share a little bit more about your faith journey and how it has affected your life / sports?

I owe all my accomplishments thus far to God, He blessed me with me doing my best and striving for greatness. I am utilizing this gift to motivate others. I would not be where I am without prayer and the Lord’s favour.

Q: What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish. The time will pass anyway. -Earl Nightingale

Q: Are you going to get an Olympic Tattoo?

Yes

Q: Beside athletics, what else do you have a passion for?

Series, movies and sleep!

Q: What’s your WHY ? What Legacy do you want to leave for our youth?
Also, looking into the future, what type of influence do you see yourself having on our nation’s and continent’s youth?

I would like to leave a legacy of attaining dreams that they may not even think possible. I would like to give back especially to impoverished communities, to give youngsters an opportunity to choose sports as an alternative to alleviating poverty.

Q: Favourite meal and who must cook it?

Anything prepared by my mother

Thank you so much for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the very best for Rio Olympics 2016! Blessings!

Gymnastics Interviews Sports

Up Close with Terence Happy Ledwaba

October 6, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Honoured to be featuring this talented gymnast – Happy Ledwaba. He is hard working, dedicated and kept to his guns and remained in in a sport that he was mocked at as being a girl’s sport. Now he is competing on top world arenas – shows that one must follow the deep passion and desire within to excel in what you love. He is deeply grounded in his faith in God. He says “I’m just a happy person I cannot even spend five minutes without smiling and I love making people feel special and good about themselves. I’m a hard working person, a go getter, friendly, patient and very observant. I would really love to touch people’s lives in ensuring that I made them see a purpose to life and believe in themselves”.

Athlete: Bio / Stats
Name & Surname	Terence Happy Ledwaba

Date of birth	24 December 1991
Place of birth	Letlhabile, Brits
Current City	Pretoria
Height	1.653m
Weight	58kg
Shoe Size	5
Club	Brits Gymnastics Club
Coach’s Name	Alta Lategan
Out of Country events	African Championships, African Games World Championships, World Cup Series
Secondary Sports	Dance
Favorite City	Cape Town
Favorite Song/ type of music	Pop Music
Favorite Movie	How to be single
School & Grade	Tshwane North College
Sponsors	Bear underwear
Twitter and Instagram names, facebook name	@tyetwo, @happyledwaba45 Happy Ledwaba Betha
Community / church projects involved in	Coaching Limpopo academy of Gymnastics
Parents Names, siblings	Mavis Ledwaba, Tebogo and Tshepo Ledwaba

INTERVIEW:

Q: You are passionate and doing so well in your Aerobic Gymnastics tell me a little bit about how you started in Aerobic Gymnastics and your journey in the Aerobic Gymnastics arena up to now?

I started my career at the tender age of 11. I was in grade five then started out at Tshenolo Primary School (in Letlhabile) and I was introduced to this type of sports which I had always thought it was some sort of dance routine. I was selected to be part of the national team in 2010. I felt so happy and I knew it was the beginning of good and great things in my sporting career. That really made me work hard to achieve more in life. I was introduced to it by Ms Mothibe, my class teacher because I was very naughty and always caught doing cartwheels and splits because those made me feel cool. Back then it used to be called general gymnastics. It was not every day when boys were participating in such sport, in fact one would be mocked if seen having interested in the sport as it was labelled a girls sport. However people’s reaction did not stop me from continuing pursuing the love I had for it. It was through meeting my current coach Alta Lategan in 2005 who was able to make more developments. I competed in my first African Championships in 2012 when South Africa was the host country and I came 3^rd. At the age of 13 I was awarded an award while competing in Cape Town. I further received my first gold medal in 2005. Now I’m competing in big tournaments such as African and World Championships, world cup series and hoping World Games next year.

Q: What is the highest accolade that you have achieved in Aerobic Gymnastics and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?

My highest accolade in Aerobic gymnastic was to compete in the world championship stage with the best athletes in the world and my highest personal achievement would have to be making team for African Games that were held in Congo Brazzaville and winning the trio category and the team.

Q: You were just in Korea – What competition was it? How did you experience it? Lesson learned?

I was in Korea for World Championships. It was an amazing experience to compete with the best and not just that only but to have fun and make friends which is very crucial in this form of art. Lesson learnt would be how amazing your body and mind can work together only by positive thinking, strength and attitude towards the tournament.

Q: Why do you have so much love and respect for your coach?

I have so much love and respect for my coach because she is more like my other mother and was able to invest in me so much and most of all she believed in my art.

Q: In your opinion, what is the value of Education in a young person’s life?

I personally believe that education is a must have, not to only youth stars but everyone as the iconic Nelson Mandela once stated that “education is not just a key to success but a weapon to change the world.

Q: Would you like to share a little bit more about your faith journey and how it has affected your life / sports?

I may not go to church as often as I would like BUT I always have time spiritually with God firstly in thanking Him in the creature that I am today, always asking for His guidance and honestly I believe that I wouldn’t be writing this interview today if it wasn’t of His grace. More especially if I step on stage I usually say “God let Your will be done” and hope for the best.

Q: What do you do to relax?

I love music so most of the time I relax with music, hanging around friends or have those unforgettable conversations with mom.

Q: One thing about you that the world does not know 🙂

One thing the world has to know is that I’m extremely shy but I hide it very well with my happy persona.

Q: What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

It always seems impossible until it is done. That’s one of my favourites.

Q: What is your favourite Bible / Scripture quote?

Proverbs 8:25 says A generous person will prosper whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.

Q: In your opinion, how do you define success in life?

Successful person is someone who goes for what they want and achieve it despite of their race, background and sexuality because that doesn’t define any being.

Q: What’s your WHY ?

I do what I do because of love. I think I’m going to give our youth in South Africa hope about life, setting goals and working ten times harder to achieve, always praying for guidance and most of all having fun while living with no regrets. Always leave a room for disappointments and note that all floss is not to break you but to build you in becoming a better or greater athlete. Keep in mind that in sportsmanship where there’s no pain there’s no gain.

Thank you for the opportunity of voicing out my talent.

Thank you so much for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for your journey ahead. We look forward to following you as you go from strength to strength. Blessings!

Africa Home Sports

SwimSmarter &NTS: Conference with Todd Schmitz

October 5, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

I have some exciting news to announce, SwimSmarter in association with NTS Education have managed to acquire the services of Todd Schmitz, a 5 times Olympic Gold medallist coach and some of the Top Coaches in South Africa – for a Coaches/Instructors Conference. Dates 29-30th October at Menlopark Hight School in Pretoria. This amazing event promises to be a highlight in this Olympic year for Coaches, Instructors, Teachers, Administrators. Parents and Swimmers.

RE: Registrations for the Sports Education Conference to be held at Menlopark Highschool in Pretoria 29-30^th October 2016

As promised, registrations will open today, Wednesday 5th October at 08:00. To register, please go to www.swimsmarter.co.za and select the online store.

For your ease of reference, there are 3 options to choose from. These include:

Option 1:

Sports Education Conference 2016

Dates: 29-30^th October

Location: Menlopark Hoerskool Pretoria

Cost: R675 (including lunch and refreshments both days

Open to: Coaches, Instructors, Teachers, Administrators, Parents and Swimmers

Description:

A 2 Day Conference featuring Todd Schmitz 5 times Olympic Gold medallist coach and some of the Top Coaches in South Africa with presentations on Creating the Teenage Champion; The Athlete: Dealing with the highs and lows; Creating a productive Club/School structure, culture and running it like the business it is, for success at the youth level; Building Relationships: Missy Franklin not only a Champion but also a Person; Speed Development in Youth Athletes: Are we fast enough?; The perfect approach to a Holistic Youth Based Program; The importance of an Instructor in a Champion’s development; Emotional Intelligence: Athletes – Humans or Robots?; Current state of swimming in South Africa: Just how good are we?

Option 2:

Todd Schmitz Swim Clinic 13 years and under

Date: Saturday 29^th October (Saturday)

Time: 11:00-15:30

Cost: R500 (includes lunch and SwimSmarter Goodie bag)

Open to: Swimmers aged 13 and under (spaces limited 40swimmers)

Description:

30 minute talk from 5 time Olympic Gold Medallist Coach, Todd Schmitz; 1 hour pool session with Todd; lunch; 30 minute talk from Giulio Zorzi, a World Championship Medallist; 1 hour pool session with Giulio focusing on Breaststroke; and an additional 30 minutes focusing on starts.

Option 3:

Todd Schmitz Swim Clinic 14 years – 18 years

Date: Sunday 30^th October (Sunday)

Time: 11:00-15:30

Cost: R500 (includes lunch and SwimSmarter Goodie bag)

Open to: Swimmers aged 14 to 18 years (spaces limited 40swimmers)

Description:

If you have any questions with respect to the Sports Education Conference or the Swim Clinic please feel free to drop us an email.

Many thanks and looking forward to sharing in this phenomenal SwimSmarter initiative.

Contact us

www.swimsmarter.co.za

admin@swimsmarter.co.za

Home Olympics 2016 Rio

Photo Journey: Sites of Rio

October 1, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

This is just a photo journey of the sights around the city of Rio de Janeiro. We salute you Brazil for hosting a most honourable and brilliant Olympics. Au revoir and not goodbye! Till we meet again.

Photo Credits – Simon Heslop

Cristo Redentor

Copacabana

Maracana

Barra da Tijuca

Home Olympics 2016 Rio Sports

Photo Journey: A View from Rio Apartment

September 29, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Rio Olympics 2016 – A view of Rio from our Apartment

Our accommodation was in downtown Rio. It was awesome to blend in with the local vibe. We smiled and made fun of ourselves especially on the days when we wore our “Proudly Brazilian” T-shirts bought off the streets in Rio, when we were stopped for directions and Games information by other ‘foreigners’!

An Olympic City is definitely a tourist destination on its own with so much happening, the city beautifully dressed up, the locals all ready to serve entertain. A little bit of a ‘problem’ once you have attended your first Olympics is the hope to attend the next and the next….. 🙂

Rio views by Day

Rio by Night

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Meet the Young Athletes – KOBE NDEBELE

September 28, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Today meet brilliant young swimming champion – Kobe Ndebele. Kobe is humble, hard working and focussed to make a success of all that he touches. He was born in the UK, and proudly resides in Jozie where he is grateful for family, friends, school and swim training at Haupt Swimming Club.

It is such an honour to catch our young athletes in their development years, and watch them grow into noble athletes of stature and worth as the years advance. Because one thing that is certain in the sports arena: there are no short cuts to success. It is a case of building and grinding day by day, step by step and brick by brick to reach dreams and goals. Read on to get to know Kobe.

Athlete: Bio / Stats
Name & Surname	KOBE NDEBELE
Nick Name	KB
Date of birth	27/02/2003
Place of birth	LONDON
Current City	JOHANNESBURG
Height	5 FOOT 2
Weight	5O KG
Shoe Size	8
Club	HAUPT SWIMMING
Coach’s Name	STEVE HAUPT
Secondary Sport/ sports	RUGBY, SOCCER, HOCKEY, WATER POLO, ATHLETICS,
Favorite City	LONDON
Favorite Song/ type of music	HIP HOP and R & B
Favorite Movie	HOME ALONE – CLASSIC CHILDHOOD MOVIE!
School & Grade	ST DAVIDS MARIST INANDA, GRADE 8
Facebook name	FACEBOOK – KOBE NDEBELE

INTERVIEW

Q: At what age did you start swimming and why?

I STARTED SWIMMING WHEN I WAS 3 YEARS OLD AS I WAS PETRIFIED OF WATER.

Q: Who are you?

KOBE MEANS “DOOR TO GOD”, I AM LAID BACK AND CHILLED, SOMETIMES A BIT TOO MUCH!

Q: Would you like to share some highlights about your sports events so far?

ONE OF MY HIGHLIGHTS WAS COMPETING IN A NATIONAL SWIMMING GALA IN THE UK WHEN I WAS NINE YEARS OLD AGAINST TWELVE YEAR OLDS AND I CAME THIRD IN THE 25 METRE BUTTERFLY AND WON A BRONZE MEDAL.

Q: Tell me a little bit about your home and school life?

I AM AN ONLY CHILD WITH A PET DOG CALLED MILO. SCHOOL LIFE IS BUSY WITH PLENTY OF AFTER SCHOOL SPORTS. ONLY AT THE WEEKENDS DO I GET A CHANCE TO GO ON THE COMPUTER AND RELAX…MAYBE!

Q: Why is it important to try and excel at academics at school?

IT IS IN IMPORTANT TO PUSH YOURSELF AS FAR AS YOU CAN GO IN YOUR ACADEMIC STUDIES AS EDUCATION CAN OPEN MANY OPPORTUNITIES.

Q: What is your favorite food? And who must cook it 🙂?

MY FAVOURITE FOOD IS LASAGNA AND MY GRANDMA MUST COOK IT.

Q: Who is your sports hero? What have you learned from him / her?

MY SPORTS HERO IS MICHAEL PHELPS AND FROM HIM I HAVE LEARNT TO FOCUS ON OVERCOMING ANY CHALLENGES THAT CONFRONT ME.

Q: What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

“SUCCESS IS NOT FINAL, FAILURE IS NOT FATAL: IT IS THE COURAGE TO CONTINUE THAT COUNTS.” ― Winston S. Churchill

Q: What is your favourite Bible Verse?

“LET ALL THAT YOU DO BE DONE IN LOVE” 1 CORINTHIANS 16:14

Q: What are you grateful for at this point and time?

I AM GRATEFUL FOR HAVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO GO ATTEND A GOOD SCHOOL AND HAVING SUPPORTIVE FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

Q: What would your message of encouragement to South African and other youth and our nation?

RESPECT YOUR PARENTS, AND NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS.

Thank you so much for taking this interview. We would like to wish you all the best for your sports and academic journey ahead. We look forward to following you as you go from strength to strength. Blessings!

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Team SA Its Rio 18 September

September 19, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

DAILY UPDATE – 18 September 2016

FINAL MEDAL TALLEY: 17

Gold: 7

Kevin Paul – Swimming

Hilton Langenhoven – Athletics Charl du Toit – Athletics

Ernst van Dyk – Cycling Reinhardt Hamman – Athletics Charl du Toit – Athletics

Dyan Buis – Athletics

Silver: 6

Ilse Hayes – Athletics Ntando Mahlangu – Athletics

Anrune Liebenberg – Athletics Jonathan Ntutu – Athletics Ilse Hayes – Athletics

Hilton Langenh

Bronze 4

Fanie van der Merwe – Athletics Tyrone Pillay – Athletics

Zanele Situ – Athletics Dyan Buis – Athletics

Van Dyk sixth in marathon as Team SA’s 2016 Games come to an end

By Mark Etheridge

Seven-time Paralympian Ernst van Dyk wrapped up Team South Africa’s 2016 Paralympics with a sixth-spot finish in the wheelchair marathon on Sunday.

And fellow ‘veteran’ Fanie van der Merwe was honoured as the team’s flag bearer at the closing ceremony later in the day.

Van Dyk 43, who on Thursday had won gold in the road race, ended with a time of 1hr 30min 11sec, the only SA competitor in action. Switzerland’s Marcel Hug won in 1:26.16.

‘Conditions were very extreme and the the heat was severe,’ said Van Dyk. ‘Marcel Hug made an attack after the first turning point, and I saw David Weir just gave up.’

‘I tried to chase them down but then it’s a case of mind games… no-one wanted to help and it was then a race for bronze, just trying to survive and jostling around.

‘I had a good position but then there was a Chinese girl that we lapped and she was bang in front of us and I went right back to the back of the bunch. That’s the thing with multiple loops… these things happen and it gets more complicated. Once the guys got a gap I yelled at the guys to help pull but I knew that was it.

‘But still it as a very good Games for me (fifth, first and sixth) and I also didn’t do any specific work for this race and was hoping for a bit of a slower race.’

Onwards and upwards thought for Van Dyk. ‘Next week is Berlin Marathon then Chicago and New York.

‘Even further ahead I just want to keep on racing the marathon circuit and keep on going as long as I can, and hey, if Tokyo 2020 comes around and I’m still there .. we’ll have to see!’

Sunday’s results see Team South African end their 2016 Games with 17 medals, seven gold, six silver and four bronze.

That put them 22nd on the medals table. Four years ago in London, Team SA won 29 medals (eight gold, 12 silver and nine bronze) which put them 18th on the rankings.

Picture of Van Dyk in action on Sunday courtesy of Wessel Oosthuizen/SASPA

Dyan, Hilton help Team SA to two more medals in Rio

By Mark Etheridge

The national rugby team might not have given much reason for celebration on Saturday but South Africa’s Paralympic team continued to rake in the medals on the other side of the world. While the Springboks went down to New Zealand, Dyan Buis and Hilton Langenhoven helped maintain Team SA’s momentum on the medals table in Rio de Janeiro.

Buis joined Charl du Toit and Ilse Hayes as a double medal winner as he added T38 400m gold to his long jump bronze while Langenhoven loped to silver in the T12 200m in a time of 22.43.. Making it even better a day for Buis was the fact that his 49.46sec win was a Paralympic record. ‘It was quite emotional for me out there becauseI knew we’d worked hard this season.’ said Buis. ‘It was marvellous. My lane draw was perfect and I fed on the runners in front of me – especially the Tunisian and Chinese guy, and then the last 200m i attacked.

‘I have to give credit to coach Suzanne Ferreira and the team around me like the physios, stakeholders and and my gym coach.

‘Tonight I also wanted to run for my wife Erna and little daughter, Jinne, which was huge motivation.

‘As for the future I’m just going to take it as it comes. I’m not thinking of quitting right now but I also have to focus on my teaching career… I need a job right now, so come on guys, if there’s anyone listening out there.

‘I’ll go home a very happy man. The last four years weren’t the easiest of my life but I’m just happy that it all worked well today.’

Some trivia pertinent to Saturday’s celebration was that Buis attended Hoërskool Langenhoven in Riversdale!

Langenhoven with his 200m silver medal.

Just as happy was ‘veteran’ Langenhoven after his Games had started off with the disappointment of disqualification in the 400m. He was beaten to gold by Cuba’s Leinier Savon

Pineda who won in 22.23.

‘I’m delighted to end off the Games for me with a silver… This was going to be my last race but now I’m thinking of World Champs next year where I’ll focus on the long jump.

’It was a bit disappointing start to the Games with that disqualification but now I’m chuffed, and I’ll take a silver any day… we hadn’t really focused on the 200m – it was more for speed- endurance for that 400m.

‘But gold and silver for me is fantastic.. I’ve got seven Paralympic medals now so you an say that I’m in seventh heaven!’

As for the future. ‘Well, we’ll take it to forward the Commonwealth Games and thinking even further ahead, if long jump is part of the schedule in Tokyo… why not,’ he laughed.

The team’s two extra medals on Saturday helped the maintain 22nd on the honours table and they now boast 17 medals – seven gold, six silver and four bronze.

Also in action on Saturday evening was Mpumi Mhlongo in the men’s T44 long jump where he ended sixth with a personal best 6.79m.

‘Sadly I only had one jump in which was my safety jump to get into the top eight and after that I must have stepped over by 1cm each time as I only fouled with a spike mark once.

‘It was amazing to see the record-breaking Markus Rehm do what he is best known for and the growth of my fellow competitors. My highlight of the night is being able to share Dyan’s gold medal moment with him as he took his victory lap.

‘To all the support back home, friends, family and strangers, you have warmed many of our hearts here in Rio. To the management (SASCOC) and medical staff, thank you for making Rio 2016 a reality.’

Just one competitor is still in action, fittingly it’s one of the team’s stalwarts, seven-time Paralympian Ernst van Dyk in the T54. Already with one gold medal in the bag (road race), here’s hoping the big guy can end it all on a high!

Picture of Buis celebrating gold courtesy of Wessel Oosthuizen/SASPA

Results from Sunday 18 September 2016

CYCLING:

Ernst van Dyk – Marathon T54 (finished in 6th place with a time of 1:30.10)

For more on TeamSA please visit our media pages. MEDIA:

Website: www.sascoc.co.za Twitter: @TeamSA16. #teamSArise Facebook – ‘Team South Africa’ Mobile App: TeamSArise

YouTube channel: SASCOCSA

Home Olympics 2016 Rio Paralympics Sports

Team SA it’s Rio 17 Sept 2016

September 18, 2016 Published by: Cresi Heslop

17 September 2016

MEDALS: 17

Gold: 7

Kevin Paul – Swimming

Hilton Langenhoven – Athletics

Charl du Toit – Athletics

Ernst van Dyk – Cycling

Reinhardt Hamman – Athletics

Charl du Toit – Athletics

Dyan Buis – Athletics

Silver: 6

Ilse Hayes – Athletics

Ntando Mahlangu – Athletics

Anrune Liebenberg – Athletics

Jonathan Ntutu – Athletics

Ilse Hayes – Athletics

Hilton Langenhoven – Athletics

Bronze 4

Fanie van der Merwe – Athletics

Tyrone Pillay – Athletics

Zanele Situ – Athletics

Dyan Buis – Athletics

Buis strikes Gold, while Langehoven brings home Silver

Dyan Buis won Team SA’s 7th Gold medal in the men’s 400m T38, with a new Paralympic record in a time of 49.46s, while Hilton Langenhoven claimed Silver in the men’s 200m with a time of 22.43 (Full report to follow)

Hayes makes it medal No15 for Team SA in Rio

By Mark Etheridge

Ilse Hayes followed in the footsteps of Charl du Toit on Saturday to become Team South Africa’s second double medallist at the Rio Paralympics.

After Du Toit had done the double by winning the T37 100 and 400-metre events it was Hayes who added to her T13 100m silver by grabbing silver in the one-lapper.

Winner was France’s Nantenin Keita in 55.78 and Hayes clocked 56.49.

Beaten she may have been but Stellenbosch’s star at least had the satisfaction of beating the woman who had won gold in the 100m, Ukraine’s Leilia Adzhametova (56.60 in third).

‘Yes the 400m wasn’t my main event but I gave it my best. I got a bronze in Athens (2004) so this is better.

‘Obviously my main event was the 100m so my strategy was to go conservatively to begin with. I gave it all for the last 100m but at least I still ended up with my second best time. The competition was very strong this year.

’This is my last Paralympics and I just have to say thanks to God for my talent etc. The silver in the 100m was the cherry on the cake for me as I didn’t train too much for the 400m. But IPC World Championships in London next year have a 100 and 200 so I’ll focus on that.

‘All thanks to a great journey with by coach Suzanne Ferreira and my husband [Cassie] my parent and by training group.’

Hayes’ medal, her seventh in her Paralympic journey, takes Team SA’s medal tally to 15 with just one day to go.

That places the team 22nd on the medals table on Saturday with Nigeria and Tunisia ahead of them.

In swimming, Alan Ferreira was the final South African swimmer in action, in her fifth and final event. She ended seventh in her heat, in 1:24.60 and failed to make the final.

In cycling, Dane Wilson ended 21st in the C4-5 road race in 2:38.50.

Picture of Hayes courtesy of Wessel Oosthuizen/SASPA

Three codes chase Rio glory for Team SA on Saturday

By Mark Etheridge

Just two days of competition remain for Team South Africa’s medal chase at the Rio Paralympics.

And Saturday will see the team in action in three codes: aquatics, athletics and cycling.

They start the day with 14 medals already locked away in the war chest (six gold, four silver and four bronze) and in 22nd spot on the medals table.

Four years ago, the team brought back 29 medals from London but it must be said that a number of multiple medal winners are no longer part of the equation.

Swimming has Paralympic debutant Alani Ferreira swimming her fifth and final event, the 100m backstroke (S9) and the Pietermaritzburg teenager has lapped up the experience and you can bet your bottom dollar she’s already targeting Tokyo in four years time.

Athletics is an all-finals day with Zanele Situ, the veteran of the team at 45, in search of a second medal – this time in the F55 discus after having won bronze in the javelin.

Ilse Hayes (T13 400m), Dyan Buis (T38 400m), Hilton Langenhoven and Ndodomzi Ntutu (both T12 400m) are also all in search of their second medal of the games while Mpumi Mhlongo (a debutant in Rio) lines up for his second event, the long jump (F44) after having competed in the sprints earlier in the Games.

And in cycling Dane Wilson, more at home on the track, takes on the men’s road race in the C4- 5 class.

SUPERSPORT Coverage

SuperSport will broadcast two 24-hour channels (SS13 and SS14) in High Definition for the duration of the Games with producers choosing the best of four feeds from Olympic Broadcast Services. What isn’t broadcast live will be broadcast on a delayed basis.

The popular Blitz channel will carry regular Paralympic news items, while the two TV channels will be available via streaming via www.supersport.com and the SuperSport and DStv Now apps, as well as social platforms and DStv Catch Up.

Daily two-hour highlights packages will be scheduled on SS Select and SS9.

TEAM SA APP for Paralympics.

Following on from the Olympic Games, Team SA has its own App for all South African sports supporters wanting to follow Team SA athletes at the 2016 Rio Paralympics.

Loads of information can be found on the very easy to navigate App, bringing you results, competition schedules, athlete profiles, images and videos of the athletes plus more.

The App is free, users can download the App and it’s available globally. https://itunes.apple.com/za/app/teamsarise/id1133481695?mt=8 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details…

Support your team and keep up to date on daily sporting events in Rio with #TeamSArise mobile.

Results from Saturday 17 September 2016

SWIMMING:

Heats:

Alani Ferreira – 100m Backstroke S13 (finished 7th in a time of 1:24.60 and did not qualify for the finals)

ATHLETICS:

Zanele Situ – Discus F55 (finished 10th with a PB throw of 14.96m) Ilse Hayes – 400m T13 (SILVER medal with a time of 56.49)

Ndodomzi Ntutu 200m T12 (semi finals – finished 3rd in a time of 22.87 SB, however did not qualify for the finals)

Dyan Buis – 400m T38 (GOLD with a new Paralympic record in a time of 49.46)

Mpumulelo Mhlongo Long Jump T44 (finishes in 6th place with a Personal best jump of 6.79m) Hilton Langenhoven 200m T12 (SILVER medal with a time of 22.43)

CYCLING:

2.30pm Dane Wilson – Men’s road race C4-5 (finished 21st, in a time of 2:38.50)

Athletes in action on Sunday 18 September 2016

(All times listed below are for South Africa)

CYCLING:

5.30pm Ernst van Dyk – Marathon T54 (final)

8.18pm Ernst van Dyk – Marathon T54 (potential medal presentation)

Source: Sascoc

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FINAL MEDAL TALLEY: 17

Bronze 4

Van Dyk sixth in marathon as Team SA’s 2016 Games come to an end

By Mark Etheridge

Dyan, Hilton help Team SA to two more medals in Rio

By Mark Etheridge

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MEDALS: 17

Gold: 7

Silver: 6

Bronze 4

Buis strikes Gold, while Langehoven brings home Silver

Hayes makes it medal No15 for Team SA in Rio

Three codes chase Rio glory for Team SA on Saturday

SUPERSPORT Coverage

TEAM SA APP for Paralympics.

Results from Saturday 17 September 2016

Athletes in action on Sunday 18 September 2016

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