Exciting Benoni High School Athletic Club talent and Benoni High School learner Casey Bosman achieved a goal of representing her country in international cross-country competition.
The 17-year-old competed in the 6km junior woman race at the Confederation of African Athletics’ Cross-Country Championships in Chlef, Algeria on March 17 where she lined up against some top African competitors.
Bosman was selected as part of the South African team after qualifying at national trials in Bloemfontein on January 20.
Before heading to Algeria the young athlete said that she was proud and excited to represent South Africa, although she realised that it would be tough against the perennial powerhouse running nations of Kenya and Ethiopia.
“I know that there are a lot of girls who really wanted the position in the team, so I couldn’t let it go to waste,” she said.
She definitely did not waste her opportunity.
The young runner finished 22nd overall and as the second South African.
“There were 21 countries competing there and there were about six girls competing from each country, so there were a lot of people taking part.
“It was raining a lot there so there was plenty of mud on the route.
“That was the difficult part of the race.
“We weren’t going the fastest we could go like when it is dry because we were trying to dodge the water and the mud so we didn’t get stuck and lose our shoes.”
The South African contingent ran as a group for about 4km of the 6km race.
“The five of us South African junior girls stuck together, trying to push each other and make sure we all stay together so that we could finish strong as a team so that we could get a good overall position for South Africa.
“In the last 2km we had to do it for ourselves.
“I think we worked really well together as a team and pushed each other nicely.
“At least I know what the level of competition is now and know what I have to do to be there.”
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