Paralympic athlete Liezel Gouws broke the T37 female long-jump African record at the Athletics Central North West (ACNW) League meeting on Tuesday 3 March in Potchefstroom, cementing her place in African para-athletics history.
Gouws added another accolade to her decorated career with a leap of 4.78 m, surpassing the previous African record of 4.59 m set by Anais Angeline from Mauritius.
“This record is a reminder that sometimes the greatest opportunities come when you are willing to try something you never thought you could do,” said Gouws, recipient of the 2023 NWU Para-Sports Award.
“I never saw myself as a long jumper, so in many ways this achievement is about daring greatly and stepping outside of what you think, is possible, for yourself.”
Having only taken up the long jump in 2024, Gouws’ journey has been characterised by rapid growth, resilience, and a willingness to take on new challenges.
“There were many challenging moments but deep down I always believed the big jumps were there somewhere,” she said. “Seeing it come together and achieve this milestone means a lot, and I am grateful that the hard work and perseverance paid off.”
Gouws also expressed gratitude for having a strong support structure that played a massive role in her preparation and success.
“My family and friends have been a constant source of encouragement throughout this journey. The expertise of my two coaches, Stephan Louw (jumps) and Shaun Bownes (sprints), has been invaluable,” she said.
“I would also like to thank Project350, SASCOC, Centre for Human Health and Performance, the High-Performance Institute, and my chiropractor Tjaart van der Merwe, for helping me stay healthy and perform at my best.”
Despite this historic achievement, Gouws believes the best is yet to come, as she prepares for major international competitions.
“The 5 m mark is getting closer and that motivates me to keep working hard and improving. This record is an important milestone, but it is also just part of a bigger journey.”
“This is an important stepping stone towards the Commonwealth Games, followed by the World Championships next year, and ultimately the Paralympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028.”
Liezel Gouws
Photo supplied by Andries Kruger
