Two stars from North-West University (NWU) have added their own sparkle to the Parisian skyline, joining the ranks of other greats in the city known for its lights. Jo-Ané van Dyk (javelin) and Bradley Nkoana (4x100 m) captured silver medals at the Paris Olympic Games and showed that greatness knows no geographical boundaries, but is defined by determination and skill.

NWU athletics manager at the Potchefstroom Campus, Wade Fraser, was very pleased with how both athletes performed.

“From North-West University Sport to North West Athletics, we are tremendously proud of our two medallists, Jo-Ané van Dyk who won silver in the women’s javelin and Bradley Nkoana who was part of the men’s silver medal-winning 4x100 m relay team that broke the African record as well. I think it shows that our student athletes are performing at the highest level, and that’s thanks to the environment they have at the North-West University. I would also like to give a shout-out to some of our other students who participated and made it to the finals and semi-finals of their events. These include Brian Raats in the men’s high jump, Rogail Joseph, Benjamin Richardson, and Ethan Olivier, who represented New Zealand in the men’s triple jump. We also had some staff involved, like Mr Jean Verster who was team manager and Mr Elroy Gelant who finished 11th in the men’s marathon.  So, as a university we’re immensely proud of them representing us and South Africa so well. We can’t wait for them to come back and celebrate with us. We are also proud and delighted that we could play a small part in their success,” Fraser explained.

The echoes of these athletes’ achievements reverberated across the Seine, and will for many years after be heard at the NWU as well.

Bradley Nkoana

Jo-ané van Dyk