Local athletes excel at masters athletics champs

TWO KwaZulu-Natal athletes recently earned themselves gold medals at the South Western Districts (SWD) Masters Athletics Championships in Oudtshoorn.

Caryn Loudon and Jodi Pastorino overcame extreme conditions which saw temperatures rise as high as 46 degrees Celsius.

The duo, who represented the province in speed walking competed in the 50-55 age category and 80-85 age category respectively.

“We were very lucky to have even had our events,” explained Loudon.

Athletics related article: Lisa stars in SA 100km World Champs success

For the Mount Edgecombe resident, the gold medal took on added significance after being told she would never race walk again following a series of accidents.

“Last year they discovered a bone eating tumour on my right knee and I had to undergo several radiation sessions to stop it from spreading. Soon after my diagnosis I had an accident while cycling and ruptured my spleen and broke my elbow.

“While recovering from that incident, I passed out while opening my fridge door and managed to break my ankle and tear my ankle ligament. After having metal screws put through my ankle, I was told I would never race walk again by my orthopedic surgeon and I said ‘just watch me’. So for me just to be back on the athletics track is a miracle and I didn’t care about my finishing time, I was just so pleased to medal,” she said.

In other sports news: Paddling community celebrates recognition for Lee McGregor

Pastorino said she too was pleased with the medal.

“The extreme heat actually let to the postponement of the champs so it just goes to show how hot it was. I was very pleased with my performances and to be able to the province proud,” she said.

For more from Northglen News follow us on Facebook or Twitter. You can also follow us on Instagram