Westville learner shares her Olympic journey
Erin Sterkenburg said she felt privileged to climb alongside, watch and learn from the top climbers in the world.
HIGHWAY rock climber, Erin Sterkenburg, who recently competed in the Olympics held in Tokyo, said she felt privileged to climb alongside, watch and learn from the top climbers in the world.
This was the first time the sport has been part of the Olympic Games. Erin was the only female in the continent to qualify for the Olympics.
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The Westville Girls’ High School learner said even though she felt it was not her best performance, she was happy with her speed and boulder. “With lead I did fall quite early, which I was disappointed about, but overall I am really happy, I got to learn from the experience,” she said.
Describing her journey, Erin said it felt surreal while she was there. “I was trying to observe my surroundings as much as possible, it was so exciting, I enjoyed every minute of it,” she added.
“There atmosphere was competitive, but overall everyone was happy and excited to be part of the Olympics,” said Erin.
Asked if it was always her dream to be part of the Olympics, she said not specifically.
“I always found it interesting to watch the games with my family. I never really thought I would reach the level to be part of them. When rock climbing did become an Olympic sport, it was an idea but it only became a goal and a dream quite recently.”
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The 17-year-old said the one thing she will treasure was getting to meet other climbing athletes. “Most of them were my idols or are my idols in fact, so meeting them in real life and speak to them, it was just amazing to learn from them,” she said. The matric learner advised young people who wish to take part in the Olympics to continue working towards their goal.
“It’s an experience of a lifetime. If you work hard and persevere in your sport, anything is possible,” she said.
WGHS SGB chairperson, Emma Dunk said they were so proud of their Olympian for representing South Africa in climbing.
“Erin took up the sport fairly late in her life, as a Grade 8 learner at WGHS. Erin has not been exposed to the international competitions and facilities that many of the other athletes have afforded.
“Despite this Erin is the fastest speed climber in Africa. The other two disciplines that make up the competition are bouldering and lead climb.”
 Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting
