KwaThema – Moeketsi ‘Sparks’ Moagi (47) is proud of his latest achievement, after taking second place in a race in Australia.
The local athlete represented the country in the World Masters Athletics 3 000m steeplechase in October.
He says coming back with silverware is one of the biggest achievements of his sporting career.
“This is such a great reward for me, to have come back with a silver medal and diploma after competing with athletes from around the world.
“I represented Team South Africa and was the only athlete from the East Rand to make the selection.
“Although the race was tough and the weather conditions were too hot, I coped well as a result of my intense training,” he says.
Moagi shares how during the race he just kept thinking of making himself, his family, his community and the country proud.
This sustained him throughout the race.
“For most of the race I was ahead of the pack. However, in the last lap, when I relaxed a bit, I was caught off guard, which cost me the gold.
“Next year, however, I plan to go back and fight, so that I can claim what I believe is mine,” he says.
Some of Moagi’s other accomplishments from last year include winning at the Bloemfontein steeplechase in March, and taking first position at the Central Gauteng Championships in Germiston in April.
He also took first spot at the SA Champs at Pilditch Stadium in Tshwane in May, which qualified him for the Australian championships.
Moagi thanks all athletes and management of Team South Africa, MMC of Sports Clr Dorah Mlambo, executive mayor Clr Mzwandile Masina and local business people such as Ntombenhle Mabuza and Mboshua Seabelo for assisting and supporting him.
He also thanks uLinda Athletics Club in KwaThema, the staff at the Ekurhuleni Metro, his family, friends, coach Pule Tjawana and his boss, Barrel Ann.
The local athlete is currently training for the SA Champs, which will take place in April, and for a race in Durban this May.
