Learner showcases her skills
FOURWAYS – Eighteen-year-old Nadya Stolarczyk did her country proud in this year’s Sharm El Sheikh ATU Triathlon African Championships last month where she placed sixth in the continent.
One of Fourways High School’s athletes recently placed sixth in the 2021 Sharm El Sheikh Africa Triathlon Union’s (ATU) Triathlon African Championships in Egypt.
Grade 12 learner, Nadya Stolarczyk, said the one worry she had was if her bike would arrive in one piece in Egypt after a long flight with two changeovers.
She felt ‘on top of the world’ upon coming sixth in the continent. “Not everyone gets to say that they had achieved something like that. Despite the conditions such as the heat, I am very thankful for the opportunity to race at such a high level for my sport,” she said.
The achievement is a notable one for the 18-year-old as she has now represented the country six times. She won gold in the 2019 ATU Triathlon Cup in Troutbeck, Zimbabwe – her first time competing internationally.
Now in Grade 12, Nadya has found time management to be a crucial skill in maintaining time for sports and her academics. She takes part in track and field, swimming, public speaking, cross-country and athletics.
“It takes a lot of planning and maintaining balance. Not only on the sporting and academic side but also one’s social life and keeping a healthy relationship with your friends and family.
“I often keep a training and nutrition diary with me so that I can plan my week accordingly and make sure I have enough left in the tank to study for prelims and finals.”
She has also been selected to represent Gauteng Modern Pentathlon Association in the South African Biathlete and Triathlete Championships to be held in Somerset West held later this month. Should Covid regulations allow, Nadya has high hopes during her time in Somerset West.
“I am aiming on finishing in the top five. It is a very strong field of ladies, so the race is definitely going to be tough one. I am hoping to also achieve a new personal best time.”
The 18-year-old is heading to her dream university, Queens University of Charlotte in the United States, to study sports and exercise science where she will continue her triathlon career.
“It is my goal to compete in the Olympics and hopefully carry on with my passion and compete in Ironman events.”
