QWAQWA – Athletics South Africa (ASA) says more focus is needed on developing young girls from rural areas, as very few are represented in national teams.
Speaking at a GBV awareness race for girls at Phuthaditjhaba Stadium on Saturday, 7 November, ASA national development coordinator Adelina Ranthino said rural girls have been neglected in athletics development.
“We are here in QwaQwa specifically to try to instil a love for athletics, especially amongst girls here. There is no doubt that there is talent here,” said Ranthino.
“We are also creating awareness against abuse and GBV.”
Ranthino said giving the girls medals is one way to motivate them to take up athletics as a hobby, which could later open life-changing opportunities.
She said ASA wants to see more young Black girls in national teams, as most girls currently in those teams are from white communities.
“There is a lot of talent that exists amongst the Black community. It just needs nurturing and development,” she said.
More than 100 under-18 girls took part in the race.
