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Gauteng Schools Champs crowned at Winter Games 2015

August 6, 2015 Published by: Cresi Heslop

One of the highlights of being a blogger is when you get a surprise invitation to attend and cover an event that is filled with so much spirit, pride and excitement! I am talking about last weekend’s Gauteng Provincial School Championships for the sporting codes of Football, Netball, Volleyball and Rugby. These thrilling and oh so nerve wrecking play offs took place at Hoërskool Florida & Albion Sports Complex in Florida on the Westrand on 1 and 2 August 2015. Thank you Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation for inviting Heslop Sports. From start to finish all activities ran as a well oiled machine with team members helpful, friendly and well organized. Covering this special meet really just reminded us of the Heslop Sports mandate of celebrating our up-and-coming young athletes. This generation of determined young champions inspire our youth, their communities, and will ultimately make an impact on our nation. Viva young athletes!

“The School Games programme is held in a partnership between the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts Culture and Recreation and the Gauteng Department of Education, which aim to revitalize school leagues, identify and develop talent and give players an opportunity to showcase their skills, as well as reward outstanding performance and achievements”.

Early morning Western Joburg stretched out an icy hand of welcome on one of its harshest freezing mornings ever, with the earth, wind, air, and frost showing no mercy towards the Young Athletes.

But the best of Gauteng’s sports young talent showed no signs of being deterred by the foul weather as they were all in their element as they shined, scored, cheered and danced for their teams in the hope and expectation of being crowned Provincial Champions, going on to represent Team Gauteng at the SA National School Champs in December 2015.

The participating School teams were from the Johannesburg, Tshwane, Ekurhuleni and Sedibeng regions of Gauteng. They competed for the title of provincial champions in their respective age categories.

Winners in the 13 year old and 17 year old categories proceeds to the national level of school games champs in December 2015, with the high aim of defending Gauteng’s title as the reigning national champions for three consecutive years. What an honour for these young talented male and female players!

“Director of Sport and Recreation at the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts Culture and Recreation and, Mr Veli Mnyandu and Mr Edgar Mogadi, Deputy Director of Sport and Recreation South Africa, were amongst the officials on hand to witness the thrills and spills of the games and award certificates, medals and trophies to the participants”.

“I am highly impressed with the level of talent that Gauteng has produced, and I have the upmost confidence that these young athletes are our future spots stars and will keep Gauteng as the Home of Champions” said MEC for the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts Culture and Recreation, Ms Molebatsi Bopape.

Please FIND BELOW the list of winning school teams of the provincial school games. Teams who won gold medals in the 13 year old and 17 old categories in the four sporting codes will represent Gauteng at the National Schools Championships in December. WELL DONE! CONGRATULATIONS!

Also watch this space because schools are soon to begin competing in other sporting codes including chess, basketball, gymnastics, table tennis, swimming, hockey and cricket to complete the Gauteng Team for the national championships.

Winners List:

PRIMARY SCHOOLS
CODE	AGE	GOLD	SILVER	BRONZE
FOOTBALLPRIMARY	Boys11 Years	MAKOLA Jhb Central	FinetownJHB South	MatshidisoEkurhuleni South
	Girls11 Years	KGOMOCO Sedibeng East	Meetsi a bopheloTshwane South	Job MasekoGauteng East
	Boys13 Years	CHIEF LUTHULI Ekurhulni North	EmfuleniSedibeng West	MayibuyeJHB West
	Girls13 Years	THOPODI Gauteng East	IpolokengJHB North	BotlehadiTshwane West
VOLLEYBALLPRIMARY	Boys11 Years	TROYEVILLE Jhb East	LoratongTshwane North	PolokengSedibeng west
	Girls11 Years	TROYEVILLE Jhb East	RekopantseTshwane West	ZolaJHB central
	Boys13 Years	TROYVILLE Jhb East	SBSMJHB central	HlabelelaGauteng North
	Girls13 Years	CATHULA Ekurhuleni South	ThuthuzekaniGauteng West	Matsie-SteynSedibeng East
NETBALLPRIMARY	Girls 11 Years	WIERDAPARK Tshwane South	MenloparkTshwane South	RandhartEkurhuleni South
RUGBYPRIMARY	Boys13 Years	PIET van VUUREN Jhb North	Bula DigoraTshwane South	GoedehoopEkurhuleni South
SECONDARY SCHOOLS
FOOTBALLSECONDARY	Boys15 Years	BOPHELO JHB North	Rosina SeibaneTshwane South	EsokwaziSedibeng West
	Girls15 Years	DR. BW VILAKAZI JHB Central	Chipa TabaneGauten North	Winnie MandelaEkurhulni North
	Boys17 Years	ROSINA SEDIBANE Tshwane South	Seana MarenaJHB Central	Norkem ParkEkurhuleni North
	Girls17 Years	AURORA GIRLS JHB Central	Rosina SeibaneTshwane South	MohloliSedibeng East
VOLLEYBALLSECONDARY	Boys15 Years	SBSM JHB Central	Dominican ConventJHB East	MaxekeSedibeng West
	Girls15 Years	MAXEKE Sedibeng West	MidrandJHB East	LodirileGauteg West
	Boys17 Years	QUEENS JHB East	Beverly HillsSeeding West	TM LetlakeGauteng West
	Girls17 Years	FUMANA Ekurhuleni South	PoelanoSeibeng West	ThutoloreJHB West
NETBALLSECONDARY	Girls 14 Years	AFFIES Tshwane South	NoordheuwelGauteng west	DinamikaEkurhuleni South
NETBALLLSEN	Girls MMH19 Years	KRUGERLAAN Sedibeng East	RoodeparkJhb West	MagaliesskoolTshwane North
RUGBYSECONDARY	Boys17 Years	RHODESFIELD Ekurhuleni North	KliptownJhb South	LethabileTshwane South

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Report Back – Cayde de Waal

August 1, 2015 Published by: Simon

Interview: Cayde de Waal

Meet / Championships Report Back
*Name & Surname*	Cayde de Waal
**Name of Champs & Dates**	South African Biathle Championships June 2015 (Buffalo City)
*Events participated in*	South African Biathle Championships June 2014 (Durban)South African Biathle Championships June 2013 (Pretoria)
*Names of medals received*	3rd Place Trophy – South African Biathle Championships June 2015Finishers Medal (Joined 10th Place) – South African Biathle Championships June 2014Finishers Medal (10th Place) – South African Biathle Championships June 2013
*Highlights of the champs*	Sprinting through the finish in 3rd place
*Lessons learned from the champs*	Always watch your back and be aware of your competitors behind you
**General impressions of the champs**	Felt very confident going into the race and enjoyed every moment
*What/ who / motivated you throughout the champs?*	Parents, Family, Coaches, Friends and even one of my teachers on the day. I was also motivated by the chance of qualifying for world’s and achieving that goal.
Anything else you want to mention	Qualifying for the Biathle World Championships in the Republic of Georgia has made all the sacrifices I made during the year well worth it.

Interview: Cayde de Waal

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Report Back – Zander Landman

July 29, 2015 Published by: Simon

Read Zander Landman’s Interview: Zander Landman

Meet / Championships Report Back
Name & Surname	Zander Landman
Name of Meet / Champs & Dates	Sasol National Winter Swimming Championship29 June – 03 July 2015
Name of Meet / Champs & dates	KZN Speedo Prestige07 July – 11 July 2015
Events participated in	50 Fly, 200 Free, 50 Back, 200 IM, 50 Breast, 100 Back, 200 Breast, 200 Back, 50 Free, 100 Breast
Medals received for which events	50 Fly – Silver, 200 Free – Gold, 50 Back – Gold, 200 IM – Gold, 50 Breast – Silver, 100 Back – Gold, 200 Breast – silver, 200 Back – Gold, 50 Free –bronze, 100 Breast – Silver. Achieved new PB’s on all my events
Highlights of the event	Broke Ryk Neethlings long standing 200m IM champ record (standing for 26 years). My time 2:37.04, also broke NTS Provincial Record.Broke 6 Championship records (50 back, 200 IM, 50 Breast, 200 Breast, 200 Back, 100 Breast) & 3 NTS Provincial Records of which one is 100m Breast that was Cameron van der Burgh’s record standing since 2000. NTS records broken 200m IM, 200 Breast and 100m Breast
Lessons learned from the event	It was great fun competing in an open swimming pool in the middle of winter. It showed me I have resilience and I have what it takes.
General impressions of the meet / meets	Sasol Champs was great, seeing old friends again was great fun!
What/Who motivated you throughout the meet / champs	My grandmother accompanied and motivated me at this gala, and just to see her face after each race how excited she was inspired me to do my best.
Anything Else you want to mention	I had great fun, cannot wait for the next race!

Read Zander Landman’s Interview: Zander Landman

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Report Back – Ruan Breytenbach

July 25, 2015 Published by: Simon

Read Ruan Breytenbach’s Interview: Ruan Breytenbach

Meet / Championships Report Back
Name & Surname	Ruan Breytenbach
Name of Meet / Champs & Dates	Sasol Winter Champs 29 June – 3 July 2015
Name of Meet / Champs & dates	Speedo Prestige Gala Durban 7 – 11 July 2015
Events participated in	Sasol: 800 Free, 200 Fly, 400 Free, 200 Breast, 100 Breast, 400 IM, 50 Free,Speedo Prestige:200 Free, 50 Back, 50 Breast, 50 Free, 100 Fly, 200 IM, 100 Back, 100 Breast, 50 Fly, 200 Back, 100 Free, 200 Breast
Medals received for which events	Sasol: I received gold for all 7 eventsSpeedo Prestige: I received the following 100 Fly, 50 Fly and 200 Breast Gold, 100 Breast and 200 Free Bronze
Highlights of the event?	Sasol Winter Champs: I broke the 100 Breaststroke record that had been standing for 31 years. I also broke 4 NTS records during this meet. Most of my events at this meet were swum under 16.Speedo Prestige: I qualified for Youth with his 100 Fly time. I also managed to break another 3 NTS records at Speedo Prestige. All my events at Speedo Prestige were swum under 14 years
Lessons learned from the event	Swimming under 14 and 16 is very tough, some of the swimmers are quite a lot bigger than me BUT I just carried on believing in what you put in is what you get out and of course my motto BELIEVE AND YOU WILL ACHIEVE!
General impressions of the meets	Both the galas were awesome as I swam all my PB’s so early in the season after Level 3 in March of this year.
What/Who motivated you throughout the meet/champs	My coach Marcus Gloak and my mother Chantelle, who are always by my side to assist me in any which way they can.
Anything Else you want to mention	I was truly amazed that I managed to break the 1 min barrier on my 100 Free. I also realized that to swim under 14 years is really very tough BUT this is what makes you stronger and work harder.

Read Ruan Breytenbach’s Interview: Ruan Breytenbach

I swam my 400 IM against Ude Fuchs (17 years) and Charl Crous (24 years) our 2012 Olympian. In the race I managed to come second overall against 2 of these top swimmers. I must admit this was a very exciting moment in my swimming life. At the end of the race Charl said to me, he knew I was going to come for him and when I past him he knew there was nothing he could do about it hee hee, thanks for that boost Charl.

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Fresh & Hungry: Themba Mthembu

July 22, 2015 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Our first WATER POLO, SA Junior Athlete joins the Fresh and Hungry Series of Interviews, his name is Themba Mthembu. He is one of those who shows so much respect, tradition, determination and passion for his sport, that one has no doubt that he is destined to go very far in the sports arena. As captain of his team his leadership qualities and firm moral grounding clearly comes to the forefront.

Themba says this “I’m the oldest child in my family. I am a passionate Water Polo goalkeeper that is always very keen in learning more about the beautiful sport of Water Polo. I am currently a member of the South African U/20 Water Polo team going to compete in the 18^th Fina Junior Men World Championships, taking place in Almaty Kazakhstan from the 4^th – 12^th of September. I am also in desperate need of funds to pay for this tour as it is self-funded.

I enjoy being with my friends and love listening to good music”.

I’ve set goals in my life and I want to achieve them. I understand sacrifice plays a big role on the road to success. I just see them as speed bumps that I eventually get over and keep on moving.

INTERVIEW:

You are passionate and doing so well in your Water Polo career, tell me a little bit about how you started in Water Polo and your journey in the Water Polo arena up to now?

I grew up quite a chubby kid. I went through a stage in my life where I wanted to try everything, from skateboarding to playing the piano. I got bored from doing some of these things and some of them I just wasn’t good at. One thing I enjoyed was attempting to swim. I then realized that there were ways of enjoying being in the water. In my first year at Parktown Boys’ I was introduced to Water Polo. I fell in love with the sport! I had one this standing in my way, and that was the ability to swim. So I jumped in the deep end of the pool and I did what I saw on TV. Basically I taught myself how to swim. But luckily I was well taught by the quality coaching staff at Parktown Boys on the basics of Water Polo. For that I am very grateful. It then took some dedication to build enough strength. And at the age of fifteen I played for U/15 A team. I then made the Provincial B team that same year. I then progressed to playing in the A team at U/16 level. I was then taken in by my school club PWC (Parktown Water Polo Club). This is where I received an enormous amount of game time, playing games every single weekend, which is needed to improve as a Water Polo player. I then moved to The OJ Eagles Water Polo club. This is where I train with current South African Water Polo players. Through hard work and passion I found my so called ‘calling’ in life.

What is the highest accolade that you have achieved in Water Polo and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?

Currently I have been selected to represent South Africa at the 18^th Fina Junior World Championships. I am greatly honored by this and consider this my highest accolade in Water Polo. Honestly my greatest personal accomplishment was being able to lead the Parktown Boys’ 1^st Team Water Polo. Knowing the amount of passion, rich tradition and pride that lays in the hearts of old and new boys of Parktown, this was a real honour. Every game I play for my school I play for them.

U 19 SA Schools team 2014

Do you have any specific regimens or rituals in Water Polo? Maybe a particular diet / training method that can be partially attributed to your success?

I listen to some music, stretch and try to keep a positive mindset.

Do you enjoy offense or defense more?

I enjoy offense because it gives me a break during a game. I’m kidding, I really enjoy defense because I just love being the last line of defense and it gives me a chance to get involved and show what I can do.

How do you find the experience of captain of your team?

It’s a great responsibility. But I love it. Getting the boys pumped before a game or speaking to them after a win or a loss makes my time as a Water Polo player memorable. It gives me a chance to interact with each and every player in the team.

What is your personal favourite motivational quote?
The more you sweat at practice, the less you bleed in battle – Unknown. This has been my driver in my Water Polo career.

If you have travelled outside SA before, what are you highlights of these travels, and what does travelling do for your mindset/ perspective on things?

It will be my first time travelling outside of South Africa this year in September. This could be in jeopardy because this is a self-funded trip and we are currently in a tough financial position. I would appreciate any form of assistance to make my dream come true.

If you have represented Team SA for Water Polo before, where did you go and how did you experience it?

In 2014 I was a part of the U/19 SA Schools team. We did not go any were but I was pretty happy to be named amongst the best players at the South African Schools Water Polo Tournament.

How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?

It wasn’t really easy at first. It just takes some time management and perseverance.

Beside your Water Polo what do you have a passion for?

I really have a passion for music. I don’t really listen to one type of genre but any song with a really good/catchy bass-line is a winner.

Tell me one thing about yourself that the world does not know?

Andy C (A UK Drum and Bass Dj/Producer) is my One Direction. His music is just really good and all his mix sets are always quality.

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

Along the way I lost my tracks because dealing with rejection was a bit of a crusher. But my father, being a man of faith, would always remind me of who I am and what I stand for. I would pray before every game for strength and after to give thanks for giving me the opportunity and guidance this far.

What do you do to relax?

On my rest days I will meditate and do some yoga. This helps clear my mind and keep me grounded.

Which athlete/ athletes inspire you?

Etienne and Pierre Le Roux. I am lucky to have been coached by both of these men. They are currently members of the National Water Polo team and are the top two best players in the country. They are amongst the most experienced in the game. They both made the national team at a very young age which is why I look up to them. They manage to get the best out of me as coaches. I am lucky to have met them both.

Which athlete/ athletes inspire you?
Etienne and Pierre Le Roux. I am lucky to have been coached by both of these men.

What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

The more you sweat at practice, the less you bleed in battle – Unknown. This has been my driver in my Water Polo career.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

“Never ever give up my boy” My dad has told me this every time I wanted to throw in the towel and I think of him saying this every time I feel like I’ve had enough.

“Never ever give up my boy” My dad has told me this every time I wanted to throw in the towel .

Themba with his mom.

Sacrifice is not easy. What grounds you – what becomes your touchstone to remind you that the sacrifice is worth it?

I’ve set goals in my life and I want to achieve them. I understand sacrifice plays a big role on the road to success. I just see them as speed bumps that I eventually get over and keep on moving.

Athletes sometimes hits a hard / difficult patch in their sports career, what goes through your mind at that time? What advice can you give other young athletes in this regard?

I remember when I had trained so hard to make provincials but I wasn’t ready. I was a non-travelling reserve. At that moment in my life I won’t forget I was thinking of moving to another sport. But I would advice that, you should take a rough patch as a way of God testing you. So never give up, if you keep pushing and working hard you will overcome.

When you’ve had a tough / bad day, what lifts you up again?

A little bit of music and a Water Polo training session with my team always brings me joy.

I’m sure you have many things going on right now, what’s to be expected next from you?

I will be playing a lot of Water Polo tournaments in the next couple of months. But the one I’m looking forward to is the 18^th Fina Junior World championships, where I will be representing South Africa.

My friend Preston McKay and I listening to music to relax

Anything else you would like to share?

Water Polo is slowly making a name for itself in this country. Hopefully more sponsors can get involved and major leagues can be formed in the future.

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!

Thank you Cresi for those kinds word and for the recognition.

Knowing the amount of passion, rich tradition and pride that lays in the hearts of old and new boys of Parktown, this was a real honour. Every game I play for my school I play for them.

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Meet the Young Athletes: Yuvish Premlall

July 18, 2015 Published by: Cresi Heslop

INTRODUCTION:

Next up in our Meet the Young Athletes Series is Yuvish Premlall (14 year old), this young man is destined for great things in life, a youngster who understands that nothing in life comes easy. He has put in many hard hours to achieve his milestones thus far and understands the commitment needed to reach dreams that sometimes seem impossible. He is often referred to by his fellow athletes and mates as one of most committed athletes. Read on to find out what is on his heart and mind.

INTERVIEW:

Who are you, what sport or sports are you passionate about, and in what year were you born?

I am Yuvish Premlall, born in March 2001. I love swimming and soccer. I am generally passionate about all sports.

At what age did you start with sport?

I started swimming at 9 and soccer at 7. I have always loved swimming as an individual sport. As a team sport soccer was always a good option. These two kept the balance between individual and team.

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

I was the first ever swimming captain of colour at St Peters Prep School.
I captained the Buccleuch Bucs Football Club.
I represented Gauteng at SA Schools Championsips in 2014 and managed to bring home a silver medal.
I swam at SA Nationals Level 3, in Port Elizabeth in 2015.

If you were not going to be involved in swimming, what sport do you think you would be involved in?

I would play soccer. I would have probably being playing with some of my ex-team mates who currently play for the Pirates Academy.

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

I have a good home life, one that I consider perfect. I have the most love and attention any child can dream of. I have a very supporting family. In school I have many friends.

How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?

Once I understood my routine I balanced out the demands of swimming training against my academic needs. It is now a normal part of my life. I play soccer on a casual basis over weekends.

What do you do to relax?

I enjoy watching sports and playing any sport that presents itself.

What is your favorite food? And who must cook it?

I have way too many favorite dishes. In my household both my parents are equally good cooks, it is always a competition who prepares the better meal. PS. I am also an aspiring chef.

Who is your sports hero in the sports that you are involved in? What have you learned from him / her?

Chad Le Clos and Ryk Neethling. “ Never give up on your dreams”.

Name one person who made a difference in your life and why?

My father, Vishal Premlall. Growing up he did not have the easiest life due to circumstances around him yet he still managed to persevere and create a fruitful life for his family, one that is deemed to be perfect. My dad is a very inspiring man to me and is my HERO.

For the rest of the year ahead, what are you looking forward to the most concerning your sport?

I am looking forward to a few big meets which will happen later this year. I am also looking forward to SA Level 3 Nationals next year in March.

What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

I drafted this quote on my own “ AGE IS JUST A NUMBER AND SIZE IS A FACTOR”.

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!

I drafted this quote on my own “ AGE IS JUST A NUMBER AND SIZE IS A FACTOR”.

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Fresh & Hungry: Carla Johnson

July 15, 2015 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Carla See Jay Johnson is one brave and determined champion of steel. This LONG JUMP ATHLETE, is on a mission to succeed even against the odds. A true inspiration to our youth, she has this to say about her challenges “I have groomed my mind to not dwell on what I don’t have. It’s no longer about what I have. It’s about what I can do with what I have, so I let my legs do what they can”.

…… It’s about what I can do with what I have, so I let my legs do what they can”.

This 18 year old has a list of wonderful Club, Provincial, South African and African Youth accomplishments under her belt. Her excellent performances in HEPTATHLON has earned her quite a bit of time in the lime light. Sports excellence runs in her blood having been preceded by her champion brothers. In her hometown community in Cape Town, they are known as the “Steenberg Sprinters”.

“Athletics is her passion and a vehicle she uses to showcase to others that living on the streets doing drugs, alcohol, gangsterism etc. is not the end all and be all of life”. (www.kidz141project.co.za)

See Jay, has this to say about herself “I’m a very humble and down to earth person. I love the colour purple. I love eating pasta…my favourite type of music is Gospel…I’m a Jesus freak and I love watching series when I’ve got my free time”.

All the best Cala as you pursue you ultimate Olympic dream!

INTERVIEW:

You are passionate and doing so well in your athletics tell me a little bit about how you started in athletics?

I started when I was 8 years old, but before I actually started I was inspired by my brothers who did athletics in their schooling years. I really started liking it and got a passion and a desire to do what they did. From the age of 8 years old I’ve been making Western Province and Western Cape teams. I really enjoyed doing it because I did it to improve myself and to make my family proud, most of all did it for God. During high school I continued my journey of making Western Province and Western Cape teams and in grade 10 I made the South African team for the very first time but I was too young to go. In grade 11 I made the SA team again for the long jump. I went to the African Youth Games and got silver in the long jump in Botswana. I was selected to go to the USA World Juniors Champs, and I was only 17 years old competing against 19 year olds! Due to getting injured in USA, I couldn’t go further with my long jump due to damaged ligaments and tendons. This year I went to Ethiopia for the African Junior Games and got another silver for long jump.

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

My highest accolade was when I went to the World Junior Champs in the USA for the long jump and Ethiopia where I competed against the Commonwealth winner, and still got a silver medal. My greatest accomplishment still remains making Team SA and representing my country for the above meets. Now I’m reaching for much higher.

My highest accolade was when I went to the World Junior Champs in the USA for the long jump and Ethiopia where I competed against the Commonwealth winner, and still got a silver medal.

Do you have any specific regimens or rituals? Maybe a particular diet / training method that can be partially attributed to your success?

I’ve got no particular diet I just have to go with what there is to eat in the house.

You have travelled outside SA before, what are you highlights of these travels, and what does travelling do for your mindset/ perspective on things?

Travelling put me in many different environments, and that made me even want to train much harder. Travelling always reminds me that it does not matter where you are in the world, that you should still continue to do your best and never doubt yourself no matter where you are.

Travelling put me in many different environments, and that made me even want to train much harder.

You have represented Team SA for long jump before, where did you go and how did you experience it?

Last year I went to the Junior World Champs in the USA for long jump but could not compete further in the finals due to an ankle injury. Last year I also went to Botswana (long jump) for the African Youth Games and got silver in the long jump. This year in Ethiopia I attended the Africa Junior Athletics Champs and received silver in the long jump.

How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics / work into your schedule?

I had to balance my athletics and sport so that I could do well in both…time management was important to me.

Beside your athletics what do you have a passion for?

I’ve got a huge passion to worshiping our lord Jesus Christ.

Tell me one thing about yourself that the world does not know?

I love rocking my heels and modeling when no one is around to see.

I love rocking my heels and modeling when no one is around to see.

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

Well I would just like to share that anything can be done if you set your heart and mind on it. Having faith in who God is, is one of the biggest things you could ever do. Always believe that you are a conqueror and with God everything is possible.

Having faith in who God is, is one of the biggest things you could ever do. Always believe that you are a conqueror and with God everything is possible.

What do you do to relax?

I watch athletics or maybe sit and speak to my friend or maybe watch movies.

Which athlete/ athletes inspire you?

Wayde van Niekerk; Ese Brume; Usain Bolt.

What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

Its not about what I don’t have, its about what I do with what I have.

Its not about what I don’t have, its about what I do with what I have.

What is your favourite Bible quote?

Psalm 23:1-6

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

To never give up no matter how hard situations might be. I should always keep my head up and strive for success and that giving up is not the key to success.

What is your biggest challenge, and what do you do to manage this challenge?

My biggest challenge is to make it to the big Olympics one day…and because of that I’m training and giving my all to achieve that.

My biggest challenge is to make it to the big Olympics one day…and because of that I’m training and giving my all to achieve that.

When you’ve had a tough / bad day, what lifts you up again?

Listening to some slow gospel music and it always seems to brighten everything up.

I’m sure you have many things going on right now, what’s to be expected next from you?

To be better than what I was the last time and to prove to those who said I wouldn’t make it, that I’m strong enough to do better.

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!

What Next for Carla: “To be better than what I was the last time and to prove to those who said I wouldn’t make it that I’m strong enough to do better”.

Down time with family.

Despite the setback in the USA she still managed to achieve and was awarded for her various achievements by Western Province Athletics.

Best youth girl of the year
Best junior athlete of the year
Sports person of the year.

Web site: www.kidz141project.co.za

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Up-Close with Devon Myles Brown

July 11, 2015 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Devon Myles William Brown, is on a roll, on an unstoppable siege as he takes the world by storm at many a local and international Swim Championships. Myles is one, who without much fuss and ado just gets on with the job at hand, and chips away daily as he works towards his dream of Rio Olympics 2016.

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Devon Myles William Brown, is on a roll, on an unstoppable siege as he takes the world by storm

In April this year he broke SA’s longest standing swimming record (Ryk’s) when he won the 400m freestyle at the SA National Aquatic Championships in Durban. He is a very talented young man who has had his share of hardship in the swimming arena, but has risen all the way to the top and has just been going from strength to strength. What a lessons and an inspiration this is for our youth!

I admire his wonderful work ethic. He attributes this to his parents who instilled in him some core values like determination and always putting in 100% toward all that he does. This paid off very well when he passed his matric year with 6 distinctions while not slacking on his swimming. A deep thinker with a passion with life, Devon Myles Brown is really one of SA’s golden boys who will go down in our history books as a great and inspirational champion.

INTERVIEW:

You have caused quite a stir and is much admired in SA and globally for your swimming, tell me a little bit about how you started of in swimming and your journey in the swimming arena up to now?

I’ve always been a water baby, from when I was a youngster I was always trying to get into the water, no matter the weather…It was probably when my parents found me at the bottom of the pool, not due to their negligence but my perseverance to get into the water, that they decided it was time I became water safe. And since then I have always enjoyed the water where my passion and love for the sport has been ever growing.

I’ve always been a water baby, from when I was a youngster I was always trying to get into the water, no matter the weather…

What is the highest accolade you have received in swimming and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?

Probably my Commonwealth bronze medal for the 4x200m freestyle relay, but my greatest personal accomplishment would definitely be breaking Ryk Neethling’s Long and Short course 400m Freestyle national records, especially the one in Durban recently in April. It came at a time when it was most needed for me personally, as I was going through a really difficult stage in my swimming career.

…but my greatest personal accomplishment would definitely be breaking Ryk Neethling’s Long and Short course 400m Freestyle national records.

Do you have any specific regimens or rituals in swimming? Maybe a particular diet / training method that can be partially attributed to your success?

I think all swimmers are superstitious with their rituals, but it seems as soon as I find one I swim badly haha… But for me it’s more my routine, and then a couple other small things that I like to do before the race, maybe a lucky pair of underwear haha. With regards to my diet I am not very strict, but I always try eat healthy and I always try my best to give 110% both in the pool and the gym, although Graham might disagree, haha.

You have travelled outside SA many times before, what are you highlights and what does travelling do for your mindset/ perspective on things?

It’s always amazing seeing and trying new things but its not as glamorous as it all sounds. Often we arrive the day before a swim meet and leave sometimes the night we finish so we don’t always get to see the cities we stay in. Although when we do, its great to experience the different cultures and you always learn new things. For sure, experiencing in new places takes a little off the swimming side of things and sometimes gives you something other than swimming to focus on, which is nice. I always learn so much when I travel and I still do learn new things every time.

It’s always amazing seeing and trying new things.

Conclusion of the Monaco leg of our trip with dinner hosted by the Prince and Princess.

How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?

It is very tough but can be done, I do struggle a lot trying to fit in academics amongst all my swimming commitments but I am always trying, it is all to do with time management!!!

Beside your swimming what do you have a passion for?

I really enjoy the investments side of business and learning new things. On top of my swimming I always like to be active, so I really enjoy my surfing and golf. The beach is always a great place to just relax both physically and mentally.

On top of my swimming I always like to be active, so I really enjoy my surfing and golf.

Golfing to relax

Tell me one thing about yourself that the world does not know?

Hahaha, it would probably be that I am very quiet and an introverted person, so often I think people take it as me being upset, in a bad mood or arrogant even, which is not the case I hope…it just means that generally I have a lot on my mind. Its something I’m quite self-conscious about because it can make me seem unapproachable to a lot of people. So I’m sorry if I seem that way haha!

What does the world not know about you? “Hahaha, it would probably be that I am very quiet and an introverted person, so often I think people take it as me being upset, in a bad mood or arrogant even, which is not the case I hope…”

What do you do to relax?

Take naps haha, its always great chilling around the pool or the beach with some friends or even playing a round of golf with my dad!

Supportive family. Myles with Dad – Malcolm and brother Matt.

Which athlete/ athletes inspire you?

Definitely Roger Federer, he is so talented on and off the court, well mannered and dresses very well! Muhammad Ali, for his mental power that he had over his opponents! And obviously Michael Phelps and Grant Hackett for how they changed the sport of swimming!

What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

There are always so many but the one that really stands out this past year or so has been, “The moment you’re ready to quit is usually the moment right before a miracle happens…don’t give up”

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

Life is too short to worry about the silly things in life; always do what you love and you will be happy. If something goes wrong you’re only allowed 5 minutes to be upset then its over and forgotten. Never do anything halfheartedly, always give of your best and never give up on your dreams no matter how big or small they appear to be.

Living away from home / travelling extensively is a sacrifice, in this situation, what does it feel like? / what grounds you/ what becomes your touchstone to remind you that the sacrifice is worth it?

Travelling is very tough but it needs to be done especially for racing. We need to race the best in the world. In the end if you want to win medals at big competitions you have to beat the best and what better way to do that than to continuously race them and learn from your losses. I am so blessed to have an amazingly supportive family, girlfriend and group of friends, who are always in my corner and really want me to achieve my dreams. So it is always really helpful having people around you that want you to succeed and are on the same mission as you. This is also what makes Seagulls Swimming Club so great! But in the end, you cannot do this for anyone else but yourself, otherwise the pressures will crush you. If you know in your heart that you are giving your best and making the sacrifices to achieve your goals and dreams, then one day it will all be worth it. For me, it has been my childhood dream to compete against the best at the Olympic Games!!

I am so blessed to have an amazingly supportive family, girlfriend and group of friends, who are always in my corner and really want me to achieve my dreams. – Mom Jean in Middle

Looking smart with girlfriend Tess Williams

What is your biggest challenge, and what do you do to manage this challenge?

Probably the mental side of sports… they say in training its 90% physical and 10% mental, and when you race its 90% mental and 10% physical which I think is so true. So this has been a major challenge for me but I continue to work on it and try improve all the time.

Biggest Challenge: “Probably the mental side of sports… they say in training its 90% physical and 10% mental, and when you race its 90% mental and 10% physical which I think is so true”.

When an athlete hits some “hard / difficult patch” in their sports career, what goes through your mind at that time? What advice can you give other young athletes in this regard?

It always seems like you hit more difficult patches than anyone else ever has but everyone goes through them, and no one goes through them at the same time. It is almost a guarantee that you will experience this at least once or twice in your swimming career and it really sucks to be honest – haha but its not about how many times you can get hit but how many times you can keep getting hit and still get back up. Fall down 7 times get up 8!! Always do what makes you happy and if you have a passion for that sport and love it, it will make those difficult patches a lot easier to handle. Just keep pushing on and don’t give up because pain is temporary but quitting lasts forever!

About Hard Times: “Fall down 7 times get up 8!! Always do what makes you happy and if you have a passion for that sport and love it, it will make those difficult patches a lot easier to handle”.

When you’ve had a tough / bad day, what lifts you up again?

Music always helps and also trying new things is always fun. Try forgetting about it because you cannot change what has happened in the past, do something that gets your mind off of things!

I’m sure you have many things going on right now, what’s to be expected next from you?

I try not to think about that kind of stuff, just trying to take it one step at a time!

Anything else you would like to share?

My name is Devon Myles William Brown, but most people know me as Myles. The reason for this is that it is a family tradition that the first-born son of each generation is called by their second name as well as taking the name William. So my first name is Devon but everyone calls my Myles, which sometimes causes a lot of confusion, haha.

Thank you so much for this opportunity and I really appreciate those kind words!!!

With girlfriend Tess

Sweet sweet victory!

Surfing to relax

Favourite City? – Monaco

Good friends

Swimming mates

Athlete: Bio / Stats
Name & Surname	Myles Brown
Nick Name	Myloz
Date of birth	21 May 1992
Place of birth	Westville, Durban
Current City	Kloof, Durban
Height	188cm
Weight	80kg
Shoe Size	10
Club	Seagulls Swimming Club
Coach’s Name	Graham Hill and Delon Dannhauser
Out of Country events/ meets	Tri-Nations Series( Perth-Australia); Mare Nostrum Series 2011-2015(Barcelona, Canet France, Monaco); All Africa Games 2010(Morocco), 2012(Kenya); World Championships LC 2013(Barcelona), 2015(Kazan, Russia); World Championships SC 2012(Istanbul, Turkey), 2014(Doha, Qatar); Commonwealth Games 2014(Glasgow, Scotland); World Cup Series (Dubai, Doha, Eindhoven-Netherlends, Berlin, Moscow, Singapore, Beijing, Tokyo) 2013,2014
Secondary Sport/ sports	Golf, Water skiing, and Surfing
Favorite City	Monaco
Favorite Song/ type of music	I enjoy a very wide variety of music but right now I’m really enjoying a genre called Future Garage (very relaxed haha)
Favorite Movie	This is always so tough, between Troy, most comic movies (Avengers, Ironman, Batman etc)
School & Grade	Highbury Preparatory School, Kearsney College
Tertiary Inst Name & Year	Damelin Correspondence College
Tertiary degree/ diploma	Commercial Law
Sponsors	Arena International, Sanlam

Africa Home Paralympics Proudly South African Sports

Send-Off: IPC World Champs 2015

July 9, 2015 Published by: Cresi Heslop

This is a special “send -off” and BON COURAGE post for one of our Heslop Sports Athletes, champion swimmer, Olympian, friend – HENDRIK VAN DER MERWE. All the best to Hendrik and the ENTIRE TEAM SA, as you represent South Africa proudly at the IPC Swimming World Champs in Glasgow organized by the International Paralympic Swimming Committee.

”If the only prayer you say in your life is thank you, that would suffice. Perseverance, Gratitude, Blessed life”.

The SA SQUAD consists of: Men – Hendrik Herbst, Kevin Paul, Achmat Hassiem, Johann van Heerden, Challis Wright, Hendrik van der Merwe and James Bezuidenhout. Women – Emily Gray, Adri Visser and Beth Nothling.

See more at: http://www.sascoc.co.za/2015/05/30/sa-team-announced-for-2015-ipc-swimming-world-championships/#sthash.QYsG3vqM.dpuf

Van der Merwe says this about himself: “By reaching the highest level of sport in South Africa, in spite of being a paraplegic, I have proven exceptional dedication and commitment in everything I do. My extensive achievements as a professional sportsman provide evidence of my motivation. Preparing for participation at International level has taught me that giving up is not an option, and I have incorporated this approach in my personal and professional life. I’m a highly competitive person, a fast learner, and I have the ability to adapt quickly to changes in my environment”.

The daily grind to keep fit

These are some of Hendrik’s Special Achievements

Swimming 2005: • Won silver and bronze in England swimming championships. • Broke five under 17 SA records at the South African Disabled Championships.

Swimming 2006: • Broke two SA Senior Records • Awarded senior Protea colors • Participated in Senior IPC World Championships (reached finals in the 100m breaststroke event)

A coaches reward – SOME MEDALS!

Swimming 2007: • Awarded junior Protea colors. • Chosen for the preliminary squad representing South Africa in the Beijing Paralympic games.

Swimming 2010: • Chosen for the South African team in the IPC World Championships in Netherland.

Swimming 2012: • No.1 on world rankings for 50m breaststroke • No.5 on world rankings for 100m breaststroke • Qualified for the 2012 London paralympic games, and selected for the South African squad

Swimming 2013: • No.2 on world rankings for 50m breaststroke • No.7 on world rankings for 100m breaststroke • Selected for RSA senior squad to represent South Africa at the ipc world championships in Montreal Canada

Total swimming awards at point of publication: • 73 medals: 36gold, 21silver, 16 bronze.

Glory days – 2012 Olympics

Africa Biathle Faith Home Interviews Proudly South African Sports Swimming

Fresh & Hungry: Marlies Ross

July 4, 2015 Published by: Cresi Heslop

Marlies Ross is one of SA’s brightest swimming Girl-Stars! This determined Fresh & Hungry 17 year old is taking the world by storm with her magnificent swimming performances. She is a Crawford College student and Jesus follower who has been on the podium at many of the world’s top class Champs. Now she has her eyes set on a good matric year and on the realisation of her long time dream – Rio Olympics 2016.

Read on to find out about what moves this young, deep, determined and relentless Champion Girl.

INTERVIEW:

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 found my passion for the water from a very young age through my mother. She was a very good swimmer when she was young and so when I was born she shared her talent with me. You can go as far as to say that I was born in the water. I started learn to swim at the age of two years and started swimming competitively at the age of seven years. I can still remember watching the 2004 Olympics where the “Fantastic Four” won the gold in the relay and I remembered telling my parents that I also wanted to do that. Since then swimming has been my life. I have grown from that nine year old girl that won the ‘Guppy Swimmer of the Year’ at NTS to a girl that have had the opportunity to represent South Africa at the World Championships, Youth Olympics and Common Wealth Games through the guidance of my coach Igor Omeltchenko.

What is the highest accolade you have received in swimming, and what is your greatest personal accomplishment?

The highest accolade that I have achieved was to represent South Africa at the Common Wealth Games and Youth Olympics last year. These competitions are also the two of my greatest accomplishments as I was placed 9^th in the 200 IM at Common Wealth Games and 7^th at the Youth Olympics, but none of this would have been possible without Gods’ guidance and strength.

The highest accolade that I have achieved was to represent South Africa at the Common Wealth Games and Youth Olympics last year.

Do you have any specific regimens or rituals in swimming? Maybe a particular diet / training method that can be partially attributed to your success?

I think as an athlete we all love to eat, but our nutrition is one of the key factors that can be very beneficial to a good performance. Over the years I have learned what types foods works for me during a particular time in the season and I think it will work differently for each person. I love having my “good luck” meal, Spaghetti Boglonase, leading up to a competition. Other than that I would say the only other ritual I do before I dive in is that I look for my father and I show him my index finger meaning ‘number one’ and then I pray.

You have travelled outside SA for swimming before, where did you go and how did you experience it?

I am privileged to have had the opportunity to go abroad and compete there. My first competition outside of South Africa was in Nigeria for the Junior Africa Games and I can remember feeling so frightened of the unknown and it tested everyone to be strong and from that moment I knew I had to learn to adapt to the unknown. As the years progressed I have gone to places like Scotland, Spain, France, Netherlands, Dubai, Australia and China competing with the best athletes in the world. During these competitions I have learned how to adapt to a change in environments, I have learned how to suppress the pressure and deliver a good performance, I have learned how to stay focused, how to communicate with people speaking different languages and manage long periods of time without my family. Travelling outside SA has also made me appreciate our beautiful country as well as and everyone back at home.

Travelling outside SA has also made me appreciate our beautiful country as well as and everyone back at home.

How do you manage to fit in both sports and academics into your schedule?

I won’t lie, it is difficult. I leave home at 4:50 am, go for morning training, then school, then back to training and finally return home by 6:45 pm and then homework starts. However, my passion for swimming and achieving my goal gives me the motivation to get through this and takes me one step closer to my ultimate goal.

I leave home at 4:50 am, go for morning training, then school, then back to training and finally return home by 6:45 pm and then homework starts.

Besides your swimming, what do you have a passion for?

I love reading when I’m not training or doing school work. I also love staying in touch with the latest technology and cars on the market.

Tell me one thing about Marlies Ross that the world does not know?

I’m a bit of a ‘petrol head’. I love cars and everything that revolves around it. Just hearing the sound of a V8 engine roaring in my ears gives me goose bumps. Also very few people know that I was the World Champion in Biathle (running and swimming together in one race) in 2007 and 2011.

What do you do to relax?

I read and listen to music, catch up with some series on TV and spend time with my family.

Which athlete/ athletes inspire you?

Penny Heyns have always been one of my role models since a young age. After meeting her I have always admired her and how she became a successful swimmer. At Tuks I have always been exposed to numerous role models such as Suzaan van Biljon, Karin Prinsloo, Roland Schoeman and Cameron van der Burg who have and will continue to inspire me every day. There are so much that I have learned from them.

At Tuks I have always been exposed to numerous role models such as Suzaan van Biljon, Karin Prinsloo, Roland Shoeman and Cameron van den Burg who have and will continue to inspire me every day.

“…a girl that have had the opportunity to represent South Africa at the World Championships, Youth Olympics and Common Wealth Games through the guidance of my coach Igor Omeltchenko”.

What is your personal favourite motivational quote?

I have three favourite quotes:

Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your live a champion. – Muhammad Ali
When you want to succeed as badly as you want to breath, that’s when you will be successful. – Eric Thomas
The harder you practice the luckier you get. – Gary Player

What is your favourite Bible Verse?

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. –Proverbs 3:5-6

What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

As a young girl my father was diagnosed with cancer. He told me that whatever I do, I should never give up and I should remember that my strength form God lies within me. Every day that I look at him, I will never forget that piece of advice.

What is your biggest challenge, and what do you do to manage this challenge?

I would say time management. It is difficult to do work while trying to further my swimming career but sometimes I just take a step back and take a few deep breathes before I continue with what I was doing.

When you’ve had a tough / bad day, what lifts you up again?

I seek refuge in the Lord and what better way to do it than by reading from my Bible. My family is always there to support me and to remind me why I am doing this.

I’m sure you have many things going on right now, what’s to be expected next from Marlies Ross?

Well this year I have SA Short Course to train for and I’m looking forward to seeing what progress I have made my. Ultimately I am working towards next year’s Olympic Games and hopefully my dream will become a reality.

Ultimately I am working towards next year’s Olympic Games and hopefully my dream will become a reality.

Anything else you would like to share?

I want to thank you for giving me the opportunity to share some of the things in my life with everyone out there. God bless.

Thank you so much Marlies 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!

An image journey below and her Athlete Stats:

I have learned how to stay focused, how to communicate with people speaking different languages and manage long periods of time without my family.

As the years progressed I have gone to places like Scotland, Spain, France, Netherlands, Dubai, Australia and China competing with the best athletes in the world.

Athlete: Bio / Stats
Name & Surname	Marlies Ross
Nick Name	Marley
Date of birth	1997/08/26
Place of birth	Pretoria
Current City	Pretoria
Height	1.82
Shoe Size	10
Club	TUKS
Coach’s Name	Igor Omeltchenko
Out of Country events/ meets	2014 – Commonwealth Games, Glasgow Scotland- Youth Olympics, China- Mare Nostrum in Italy, Barcelona & Monaco2013 – World Championships, Barcelona- Junior World Championships, Dubai
Secondary Sport/ sports	Athletics
Favorite City	Monaco (France) & Pescara (Italy)
Favorite Song/ type of music	R&B Pop
Favorite Movie	The Longest Yard/ Facing the Giants
School & Grade	Crawford College, Grade 12
Sponsors	TUKS Swimming
Twitter and Instagram names, facebook name	Twitter: @marliesross8Instagram: marliesross8Facebook: Marlies Ross

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