Running ahead of the competition

CJ Engelbrecht (10) from Lambton loves to be active.

This year he decided to compete in the school’s athletics team and shone in the 1 200m distance running.

Engelbrecht said he enjoyed the distance as he gets to run.

But, he did more than just run. He ran well and won gold medals at athletics meetings at Laerskool General Alberts Primary School, Laerskool Baanbreker, as well as inter-primary athletics.

Because of his outstanding performance at these events he was selected to compete at the recent Greater Germiston athletics meeting.

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“He went up against very tough competition as strong schools competed at the event,” explained his proud mother Melissa Cilliers.

Engelbrecht placed third in his discipline at the meeting, however, he never received a medal for his efforts.

“Sadly he didn’t get a chance to stand on the podium and didn’t receive a medal as the medals for the event were reportedly stolen,” said Cilliers.

Unfortunately, Engelbrecht’s athletics journey came to an end for 2020 when he was knocked out at the D6 athletics meeting.

“He placed sixth in the event,” said Cilliers.

“He did struggle a little though as it was his first event on a tarred track and the heat burnt his feet.

“You can practise as much as you like, but the heat really does affect the result of your running.”

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Engelbrecht said he really didn’t like burning his toes, but enjoyed winning events throughout the season.

“I hope to do even better in the next season,” he said.

To keep him busy and active ahead of the next athletics season Engelbrecht is enjoying a number of sporting activities including rugby, golf and wrestling.

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Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za, Leigh Hodgson (News Editor) leighh@caxton.co.za or Busi Vilakazi (Journalist) busiv@caxton.co.za.

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