Seen from left are Lwakho Gebenga from Vuyolwethu High School who took the top spot in the open women category (19 years and above) and Bavuyile Mbewana, who shone in the junior men Under-17 category. Picture: Supplied
This past weekend, the Northern Cape rowing team made a remarkable journey to Mpumalanga (Mbombela) to represent the province in the South African Indoor Rowing Championships.
The team comprised 25 rowers from five local schools: Vuyolwethu High School, Boitumelo Special School, Tetlanyo High School, Emang Mmogo High School, and Dr. EP Lekhela.
The young athletes, ranging from seasoned competitors to enthusiastic newcomers brought home two gold medals.
In the fiercely contested female rowing category, Lwakho Gebenga from Vuyolwethu High School took the top spot in the open women category (19 years and above). Bavuyile Mbewana, also from Vuyolwethu, shone in the junior men Under-17 category, claiming gold as well.
The competition saw rowers across different age groups ‘racing’ to cover a specified distance on indoor rowing machines, with the fastest times earning the prestigious medals. The Northern Cape team’s performance was a testament to their hard work, rigorous training, and the growing talent within the province.
Skhumbuzo Ngubane, representing the NC Rowing Association, expressed his pride in the team’s achievements. “We are very proud of all the rowers. This performance boosts our confidence for the upcoming national competitions. We hope to bring home more medals, if not all,” Ngubane said.
Looking ahead, the NC Rowing Association is preparing for a significant water camp in the Eastern Cape in September. “We’ll be introducing new rowers and scouting for fresh talent to join our team,” Ngubane added.
As the Northern Cape rowers return home, their success in Mbombela marks a significant milestone for the region’s rowing community.
With the national stage now in their sights, the young athletes are ready to elevate their game even further, fuelled by their recent victories.
Related Topics: