Local teacher wins big at African Masters Athletics
The 64-years-old said she doesn’t have any injuries or taking any medications at her age.
Sir Pierre van Ryneveld High School teacher Mariet Geyer won various medals at the African Masters Athletics Championships held in Pretoria recently.
Geyer represented South Africa in the 5 000m, cross-country and half marathon events.
“I won two gold medals and one bronze. I am a Christian. Whenever I go on track, I know that am not alone. I am so grateful to the Lord for the talent he gave me.”
The 64-year-old said she doesn’t have any injuries and isn’t taking any medication at her age. She is, therefore, able to pursue her passion for sports.
ALSO READ: Thembisa Sporting Ladies excel at regional league
She is originally from Centurion, Pretoria, and holds a doctorate in education from the University of Johannesburg, specialising in psychology.
According to Geyer, there were many representatives from African countries, and it was a dream come true for her to run with them.
“I had always wished to run against athletes from other African countries including Kenya and Ethiopia, and it has been a privilege. It was fantastic to see athletes with such dedication and talent in action.
“We can actually learn a lot from them, more especially how they warm up,” she said.
She said the African Masters Championships normally run every second year, and due to Covid-19 the event was cancelled.
ALSO READ: Pulse of a Nation and Supersport share inspiring stories of local football legends
“The championships were a huge one for us and I had to run every day to prepare for the big event.”
She stated that she had been running since her early primary school days and she never looked back.
Geyer trains twice a day, in morning with a group of runners, and later in the afternoon where she does tracks.
She said she overcame all obstacles in her life through prayer.
