By Tiyiselani Precious Miyambu

Hard work and commitment paid off for the North-West University (NWU) Mahikeng Campus aerobics team who achieved their third consecutive victory at the 2024 University Sports South Africa (USSA) Aerobics Championships.

Held from 2 to 4 December 2024 at Walter Sisulu University, teams from universities across the country competed in various aerobics disciplines during the event.

The team’s coach, Godwill Sefume, attributed the success to rigorous preparation and collective determination. “The team pushed themselves to their limits and stayed focused. Winning three times in a row reflects their perseverance and belief in each other.”

In 2023, the team reclaimed their title with two gold and two silver medals in Team Challenges. For the 2024 season, they intensified their training, often conducting three sessions a day. The team overcame challenges, including injuries and fatigue, while maintaining their focus under Godwill’s guidance.

Team chairperson Tshegofatso Masilela acknowledged the pressure of defending the title. “Entering 2024 as two-time champions placed us under immense pressure. We had to work harder and smarter. However, the commitment we put into our training prepared us for anything.”

The championship concluded with a gala dinner where individual awards were announced. NWU athletes succeeded in various individual categories:

· Hi-Lo category:

o Itumeleng Nthako (Category B) secured first position.

o Kopano Tlapu and Kabelo Skosana earned second place in their respective categories.

o Grace Thanyane finished third in Category B.

o Oratile Motale took third place in Category A.

· Kata-Box:

o Itumeleng Nthako achieved first position.

o Kopano Tlapu finished in second place.

o Kabelo Skosana and Keketso Motumiseng came second and third in different categories.

· Step competition:

o Thembile Manzana claimed first place in Category C.

o Kabelo Skosana and Grace Thanyane finished second in their divisions.

· Step-Box category:

o Grace Thanyane earned first position.

o Itumeleng Nthako shared the top position in Category B.

o Kopano Tlapu and Kabelo Skosana both placed second, with Keketso Motumiseng taking third place.

· Functional discipline; Itumeleng Nthako was placed third.

Finally, the overall winner was revealed. “We were holding hands, and our hearts were racing. When our name was announced as champions for the third time, we couldn’t hold back our joy. We ran to the stage, overwhelmed by the moment,” says team chairperson Tshegofatso.

Reflecting on the journey, coach Godwill emphasises the importance of enjoying the process. “I always tell them to focus on the journey, not just the trophies. This win shows what happens when you trust in your preparation and support one another.”

Tshegofatso says the victory symbolises years of effort and growth. “These championships represent hard work and pushing past limits. We have shown what is possible with belief and commitment.”

The aerobics team’s historic “three-peat” serves as inspiration for future athletes and sets a high standard for university sports excellence.