Pietermaritzburgās sporting facilities, which host a range of sporting codes, were abuzz with activity as athletes from across the province converged to compete on Friday. WhenWeekend Witnessvisited the Msunduzi Athletics Stadium on Friday, there was a palpable sense of camaraderie and competition, with athletes beaming with joy at the chance to showcase their talent and connect with others who share their love of sport. Athletics coach Lihle Mkhize-Dube, from Ugu District Municipality, said the day was going well and that coaches, like their athletes, have enjoyed networking with people from different parts of the province.
āI have been engaging with coaches from other districts, and itās been very rewarding to hear about their athletes and tell them about mine,ā Mkhize-Dube said. Her athletes, Zelda Barnard and Leyandrie Mfazwe, added that it has been enjoyable to spend quality time with those they are already familiar with, such as their team-mates. Amajubaās Zenna Ali and Andiswa Mthsali said they were grateful for the opportunity to participate in the games and establish connections with other athletes and coaches.
They added that the games have made the athletes feel like they are on a school excursion, bringing fresh experiences while giving them time to unwind from academics. Umzinyathi Districtās Edward Ngcobo said he hopes to pursue athletics professionally, which is why he was excited to showcase his skills to the coaches, recruiters, and other athletes in attendance. Harry Gwala Districtās Livante Mentor and Troy Bloem said it was their first Salga DSAC Games and that they were pleasantly surprised by how welcoming and relaxed everyone has been.
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From his enthusiasm, one can deduce that Livante may be a sprinter, but he is not hoping to dash through the weekend. The games, hosted by the uMgungundlovu District Municipality for the first time in seven years, started on Friday and will conclude on Sunday, with a closing ceremony at the Royal Showgrounds.
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