Little champ pushes for success

Dedication, a positive attitude and just the right amount of sheer force is what pushes 10-year-old Dané Kleinhans to excel on the shot-put field.

Being an extroverted and competitive youngster, the Kuswag Skool Grade 5 learner was a natural when she stepped on the field last year. Her talent was discovered at her former school and she later was given the honour to participate in the South African Schools Athletic competition. Dané represented KwaZulu-Natal and was placed an impressive seventh.

She hoped to improve her result this year when she was selected to compete again, however, her dreams were placed on hold following the lockdown. Having moved to Amanzimtoti from Johannesburg last year, the lass has adjusted well in school and now participates with the Umlazi Shot Put Team.

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While news of the competition being placed on hold came as a blow to her, Dané remains optimistic and ensures that she trains almost everyday in her garden.

Dané’s mom, Delia said, “It is wonderful to watch her perform so exceptionally well. Considering that she only started participating last year, she has achieved so much already. While it is unfortunate that the competition has been postponed, we are very proud of her for being selected.  Our family supports and encourages her to do her best and we know that she will make us proud. The support and motivation she receives from her team is wonderful as well. Jeanine Schoombee, from the Umlazi team, went above and beyond to offer Dané extra one-on-one training before the lockdown. We are incredibly grateful and honoured.”

Dané is currently working on her online school classes. In addition to shot-put, she also participates in hockey and netball.

“My message to other children is to always believe in yourself, train hard and make your dreams come true. I hope to compete in the shot-put championships as soon as the lockdown is over,” said a passionate Dané.

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