Remarkable memories remain

The Homeschool Athletics event that took place at Ruimsig Athletics Stadium on 19 October may be done and dusted, but some memorable races are still engraved in many attendees’ hearts.

The event was organised not only to give home-schooled learners an opportunity to compete against their peers, just as the majority of normally schooled children in the province do, but also offered physically challenged learners the opportunity to compete without feeling excluded.

One heart-warming moment at the event was when a physically challenged youngster, Karli Oberholzer, proved to everyone that nothing is impossible, by taking to the track and enjoying the race like everyone else.

“This event was not just for the super-talented and fit children, it allowed every single home-schooled child, regardless of their talent or physical abilities, the opportunity to be seen and participate in each and every field event or entrepreneurial project they set their hearts on. Every single child starts off on a level playing field and that’s why kids like Karli Oberholzer love taking part. They are what makes this event, for us as event organisers, so worth it,” said Tracy van der Berg, the founding member of this growing annual event.

She elaborated further on Karli’s participation. “She has made so much physical progress. She is such a little star and a shining example of what you can achieve if you have love, support and tons of courage.

“At last year’s event, Karli took part using a walker, but this year, with the support of her family, determination and the pure joy this little girl exudes, she managed to reach new heights and took part without her walker and with only a little assistance in the form of a helping hand from her big brother, Karel,” Tracy explained.

Karli is described by her mother Karla as the happiest and most cheerful little girl. “She is amazing to watch, and her joy is contagious,” her proud mother said.

Tracy added, “Each year as we learn and grow into the next year’s event and challenges, all children (athletes and entrepreneurs alike), but especially kids like Karli, become the ultimate reward and the reason we keep doing this and try to create awareness of the importance of physical activity for children from across Gauteng and surrounding provinces”.

She concluded by encouraging children between the ages of three and 17 years to participate in the event, as this platform gives them and their parents the opportunity to celebrate their health and the potential to be identified by private athletics clubs.

For more photos of the event, click here: