One hundred eighty-eight (188) learners from different schools and areas in the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati (DR RSM) graced the Mmabana Taung gym hall, attending skipping rope selections for school summer games on Saturday.
Twenty-four learners who performed exceptionally from district selection will represent Dr. RSM on Saturday, September 23, in Mmabana Tlhabane, Rustenburg.
Learners from two special schools within the district, MM Sebitloane (in Taung) and Temoso (in Ganyesa), stood out in the competition as most athletes are from these schools. Learners showed enthusiasm and dedication in this competition.
One of the selected, Lebona Lesetedi (15) from Huhudi High School in Ganyesa, emphasized hard work and being more creative when competing against his peers. "I practice at least four hours a day because I would love to compete nationally," he said.
The Chairperson of Skipping Rope South Africa, Mpho Seate, was pleased with the overall performance of the Dr RSM district team and hoped to see them perform better in the provincial selections. "Previously, this district was known as a powerhouse for rope skipping in the province. So, I am excited to see learners from different communities inclusive to learners from the special school participating," said Seate.
Seate encouraged learners to start practising as early as January and not wait for competition times because he was worried about the fitness of many. "When learners were doing speed, especially level 1 and 2, competitors seemed exhausted in the last 10 seconds, so I think they must work more on their stamina," he added.
Seate also said that for learners to become clinical in their performance, they must pay attention to the "fundamentals of gymnastics", such as hand stance and cut wheels when skipping.
