Chemene Mentz, a Grade 11 learner at Helpmekaar Kollege, said her journey into middle and long-distance running began when a primary school teacher encouraged her to try cross-country.
From the moment she took to the track, she knew she had found something special.
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Training hard is second nature to Chemene. “I love what I do, which makes pushing myself easier,” she said. The physical preparation is intense but the mental toughness sets her apart. Each race is a test of endurance and focus, and staying injury-free is one of her biggest challenges. “Once you’re side-lined, it’s tough to come back.” Yet, her resilience has seen her through tough times, always returning stronger and more determined.
The past two years have been career-defining for Chemene. Winning her first gold medal in the 1 500m at the ASA SA Championships, setting a personal best, was a pivotal moment. She followed that up with another gold in cross-country and an unforgettable victory at the Noordvaal Junior Girls event. Each race pushed her beyond what she thought possible, and each win only fuelled her drive to achieve more.
Running is more than an individual pursuit for her – it’s a family affair. “We’re all runners, and that’s one of my greatest blessings,” she shared, crediting her family as her biggest support team. Even on days when motivation is hard to find, the routine of running has become such a part of her life that skipping it isn’t an option.
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While she enjoys the 800m and 1 500m, Mentz has a special love for the 800m, calling it ‘fast and hard’. Recovery after intense training or races is essential, and though ice baths are her least favourite, she swears by them, along with a strict regimen of vitamins and supplements.
Looking ahead, she has set her sights on representing South Africa on the international stage. Balancing the demands of training with her academics is no small feat but thanks to her supportive teachers and extra effort, she’s able to keep up with both. For her, it’s all about commitment – whether it’s the classroom or the track, she’s always pushing for that next goal.
With her talent, drive, and unwavering determination, Chemene is just getting started. There’s no doubt she’ll keep pushing past every finish line she sets for herself.
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