Against all odds – KwaThema resident jets off to Italy
Happy Dingile (16) is jetting off to Italy to represent the nation in the track and field games.
KwaThema – The 800m and 400m runner says he is beyond excited for the opportunity.
“We were invited by the metro to the Ekurhuleni Games 2017 in Germiston, and Happy did exceptionally well.
“That is where he was selected,” explains Moeketsi Moagi, Happy’s coach.
Also read: Athletes invited to participate in trials
While preparing for the trip, the club soon realised that the boy had many challenges.
“We checked his home situation and it was not good.
“They couldn’t afford to get him an ID, let alone a passport.”
The club committed to assisting him with the administration for his travel.
“At the end of the day he is not just one of us in the club, but the whole community.
“His victory will make all of us proud.”
As a coach, it is my dream to produce an athlete that will wear national colors.”
Happy will depart from OR Tambo International Airport on July 3.
It will be his first time on an airplane.
“I’m ready.
“I especially want a gold in the 800m,” says Happy.
“This shows our efforts for athletics.
“We are still encouraging other aspiring athletes to join the club,” adds Moagi.
Next week the club will run one of its last cross-country races in Westonaria.
“After that, we prepare for the South African Championships which are later this year.”
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