JANSENVILLE NEWS - Endinako Jola, a 17-year-old Grade 10 learner of Gcinubuzwe Combined School in Jansenville, has officially qualified for the National School Athletics Championships that will take place in Pietermaritzburg from 3 to 5 April.
Endinako, a dedicated member of the Sinalithemba Athletics Club, has been in exceptional form this season, securing victories across multiple events.
His journey to nationals began with dominant performances in Graaff-Reinet and Westbourne, Gqeberha, where he won the 3 000m, 1 500m and 800m races.
He then advanced to represent the Sarah Baartman District in Queenstown last weekend, where he continued his winning streak.
On Friday and Saturday, he claimed the first place in the 1 500m and 800m.
On Sunday, he won the 3 000m in a time of 08:53, followed by another first place finish in the 1 500m final with a time of 04:11.
He also competed in the 800m final, finishing sixth with a time of 02:20.
Jola is coached by his father, Luthando Sikiwe, who also trains the athletics team at Gcinubuzwe Combined.
The school principal, Vuyolwethu Mbune, expressed immense pride in Jola’s achievements.
Only two quintile 3 schools in the Sarah Baartman District have qualified for the national championships, making Jola’s success even more remarkable.
The school and community are now actively fundraising to ensure that Sikiwe can travel with Jola to the nationals.
They are behind him 100% and hoping that he will continue his outstanding performances and make his mark on the national stage.
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