KNYSNA NEWS - On Wednesday 21 June, the spotlight fell on the talents of bright, young learners at the Kilt Athletics Talent Roadshow.
Endurocad and the Knysna Initiative for Learning and Teaching (Kilt), two formidable non-profits, teamed up in a collaboration that promised to change the lives of kids in the community.
The Stellenbosch Athletics Bursary Programme is conducting a nationwide talent search this month to identify outstanding young athletes, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds, as bursary recipients.
The programme develops athletes from all regions by giving them the resources they need to fulfil their athletic ambitions.
"The roadshow is a great opportunity for talented athletes to attend high schools that have specialised coaches and techniques to give rural children great opportunities," said Kilt sport project lead, Rob Stoker.
The young athletes were eager to make an impression on the talent scouts. Photos: Endurocad
This is the third year that Kilt has sent athletes to the talent search roadshow. Kilt was also responsible this year for planning the talent search in Knysna for the first time and extending the invitation to all Garden Route schools.
The talent search sessions were previously held in Oudtshoorn. Schools coached by Kilt coaches - mostly in Knysna, but also George and Uniondale - participated in the event.
The participating schools were Uniondale High, Brackenhill, Sunridge, Fraaisig, Concordia, Thembelitsha, Chris Nissen, Hornlee Primary and Outeniqua Primary.
The talent search went off without a hitch despite the pouring rain that greeted the eight coaches from the Endurocad team, led by Olympic silver medallists Elana Meyer and Zola Budd, when they arrived at the Knysna High School field.
Over 70 children took part in assessments for sprints, walking, and middle to long distances, but the jumps couldn't be evaluated due to the weather.
The organisers were pleasantly surprised by the abundance of athletic talent in the area, and despite the cold and wet conditions, the afternoon proved to be a resounding success.
The Talent Roadshow was open to all interested students from in and around the district and over 70 learners participated.
Eager young athletes waiting to show off their talents at Knysna High School.
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