Bluff badminton star ready to take on ‘All Africa’ championships
Skyler-Rose Rowe needs to raise R20 000 by the first week of December to compete at the All Africa Schools Championships in Harare.
UP-AND-COMING badminton star Skyler-Rose Rowe is gearing up to compete at the All Africa Schools Championships, set to take place in Harare, Zimbabwe, from December 16 to 20.
Rowe (15) who lives on The Bluff, said while she is looking forward to competing against opponents hailing from schools in various African countries, she now has to raise R20 000 by the first week of December.
“The main challenge now is raising funds. Our team has to raise a total of R100 000, which covers our flights, accommodation, food, transport and tournament fees,” she said.
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Rowe, a Grade 10 learner at Durban Girls’ High School, said she will be competing at the championships together with three other teammates from the school’s first team.
“We earned the opportunity to represent South Africa by winning the SA Schools Tournament in August. It was an incredible feeling knowing that our hard work had paid off. If I were given the opportunity to travel to another country for a tournament, it would be a dream come true.
“The idea of facing talented players from different parts of the world fills me with excitement and anticipation. It’s not just about representing my school and country but also about the chance to learn from others, broaden my horizons and experience the thrill of an international competition,” she said.
Rowe, who also plays for the KZN Badminton team, said she started playing socially at school in Grade Four, at age nine.
“But my love for the sport grew as I began to play with older learners in Grade Five. The highlight of my school days became badminton training, and that’s when I knew I had a real passion for it,” she said.
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Rowe said there were many benefits to playing badminton.
“Being a Grade 10 learner, life is filled with academic challenges and responsibilities. When I step onto the badminton court, it is a refreshing escape from the classroom. The sport provides a sense of balance, relieving the stress and pressures of everyday life. It’s a place where I can fully focus and channel my energy.
“The fast-paced rallies and strategic thinking required in badminton not only keeps me physically fit but also mentally sharp. It is a dynamic contrast to the routine of school life, and the excitement it brings keeps me motivated and passionate about both my academics and my game,” she said.
Rowe said her role model in the sport is Callista Ramowtar, an older player at her school and in the KZN team.
“Callista has represented South African teams multiple times, demonstrating exceptional sportsmanship and skills. She is not only a talented player but also a great friend and teammate,” she said. Rowe added that while she is passionate about badminton, her current focus is on playing at the provincial level and enjoying the sport.
“My goal is to continue representing KZN and my school while pursuing a university team if the opportunity arises,” she said.
For more information on how you can assist, contact Chantal Rowe (mother) on 060 626 5495.
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