The athletics team from the North-West University (NWU) claimed their second Varsity Athletics title on Friday night 15 March at the Kenneth McArthur stadium in Potchefstroom.

The NWU amassed a total of 31 277 points after winning both legs of the competition. In doing so, the NWU reclaimed its crown from Tukkies who have been champions for the last three years.

Long jumper Joné Kruger improved on her own Varsity Athletics record with a jump of 6,49 m and was also named Victrix Ludorum, while 110 m hurdler Tiaan Kleynhans broke the Varsity Athletics record with a time of 13,73 seconds. 

“We are extremely proud of the team and the way they approached the competition,” said Sheldon Rostron, director of sport at the NWU’s campus in Potchefstroom. “It shows the character of not only the team but the university as a whole. We kept on fighting to the last second and we left everything on the track. Tuks and UJ were gunning for us and they aren’t the easiest of teams to compete against.”

Sheldon also had praise aplenty for athletics manager Terseus Liebenberg.

“I have to commend Terseus for the impeccable job that he and his team does. He has the ability to have his team stand and work together. He has had many successes and that trend is set to continue.”

Sheldon also applauded the depth of talent at the NWU.

“We had 24 or 25 athletes representing us at the Varsity Athletics competition, but our depth is so much greater. It allows us to keep on achieving success.”

Now to defend the title in 2020…