Coetzer on cloud nine after qualifying for national cross-country champs
She finished second in the senior women’s 4km race at the CGA cross-country champs.
Boksburg resident Samantha Coetzer is beyond excited after qualifying for her first ever ASA cross-country nationals on September 7 at Izak Steyl Stadium in Vanderbijlpark.
Coetzer will represent CGA at the event after sealing her place during the provincial cross-country championships at Kagiso Sports Complex on August 17.
The Nedbank RC runner finished second in the senior women’s race after clocking 16:43 to finish behind the winner, Sisanda Dumisa of UJ, who crossed the line 35 seconds earlier to win the gold medal.
“It felt like a total dream,” she said.
“Running is my passion and gives me that warmth in my belly. I’m beyond excited and can’t wait to compete in the SA champs. It’s an absolute privilege to run for CGA.”
Against a strong field, Coetzer really held her own after Dumisa stretched them and seemed unaffected by the heat and slight wind they faced on the slog towards the home stretch.
“The course was tough but cross-country overall is challenging. I didn’t even notice the wind and the heat as my adrenaline was pumping,” said Coetzer.
While everyone got out of the blocks trying to get to the front and keep up with Dumisa’s pace, Coetzer elected a steady start due to the unpredictability of the course. She then began to push herself after 1km and maintained that pace until the finish.
“My strategy is to always run a fast and consistent pace throughout the whole race. In the last 1km, I usually use what’s left in the tank. I don’t go out too fast because of the cross-country route being unpredictable. Sisanda is a brilliant athlete. She was on fire and got what she came for.”
Coetzer is aware of the country-wide depth of talent in her category and while a medal would be a bonus, she’s going to the Vaal to learn and enjoy the experience.
“This is my first year running cross-country and it will be my first time at the nationals. I’m training towards the event and I will run the race to my fullest potential. I will enjoy the experience and it will be a learning curve as there will be lots of talented and professional athletes,” Coetzer said.
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