Staff Reporter
Rowing South Africa’s Olympic-qualified athletes have been training intensively in Tzaneen, preparing for the Games in Paris.
On Sunday, it was the second day of racing at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games which was an exhilarating experience for the team. Kicking off the day, the Men’s Pair, featuring Christopher Baxter and John Smith, put on an impressive performance, finishing second in their heat. Their strong finish means they advance directly to the A/B Semi Final on Wednesday.
The goal for Wednesday is clear: secure a top 3 finish to earn a coveted spot in the A-Final.
The atmosphere at the rowing stadium was electric, with an incredible buzz from the crowd. The excitement reached fever pitch whenever a French crew took to the water. It’s also heartening to see so many South Africans in the stands, passionately cheering for team.
The team had training day on Monday to fine-tune strategies and maintain focus. On Tuesday morning, Paige Badenhorst will compete in her Quarter Final at 10:00am.
The team, focusing on the men’s pair and women’s single scull, left South Africa on 18 July, with the Olympic rowing events having started on 27 July.
The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee has announced the men’s pair of Chris Baxter and John Smith, along with their coach Tiago Loureiro.
Paige Badenhorst clinched her place in the women’s single sculls for the Games.
The serene setting of Tzaneen, nestled in Limpopo, has provided an ideal environment for the athletes to refine their techniques, build stamina, and develop mental resilience.
Both the men’s pair and the women’s single scull have been working tirelessly, honing their skills and strength through long on-the-water sessions, strength conditioning, and race simulations. These athletes are seasoned competitors with a history of international success, demonstrating exceptional determination, precision, and drive.
In the men’s pair, the dynamic duo of Baxter and Smith has developed a strong synergy, working as a cohesive unit both in and out of the boat.
Meanwhile, Badenhorst, the women’s single sculler, has spent countless hours perfecting her technique under the guidance of her coaching team. Her training is designed to optimise her speed and endurance, key elements for excelling in the demanding single-scull event.
This unity among the athletes and their coaches fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.
As the team prepares to leave for Paris, there is a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement. The hard work and dedication shown in Tzaneen have laid a solid foundation for a successful Olympic campaign, and the team is eagerly looking forward to the challenges and triumphs that await them in the French capital.
The team carries the hopes and support of a nation ready to make waves on the international stage.
INSIDE EDUCATION
