CAPE TOWN – A 17-year-old Cape Town angler who has overcome significant challenges is asking for community support to compete in the South African angling championship on 8 April.
Ruben Labuschagne from Oakglen, Bellville suffered a stroke as a baby and was subsequently diagnosed with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and sensory-processing disorder. At age 11 he was also diagnosed with autism-spectrum disorder (ASD) with a pathological demand avoidance profile. His right leg, arm and face are affected by cerebral palsy.
Despite these challenges Ruben has found his passion in freshwater fishing, particularly barbel fishing. His dedication to the sport is unwavering; when he’s not fishing he watches fishing videos on YouTube or practises with his rod on the grass.
Ruben has been a member of the Cape Town Angling Club with his brother and father for several years. In December 2022 he represented the Western Province at the SA championships at Bloemhof Dam in North-West province as part of the junior B team, competing against neurotypical juniors.
The head judge was so impressed by Ruben’s passion and dedication that he presented him with his own medal. Despite his disability Ruben fished for five days non-stop, waking early each morning and fishing until late.
Following this success Ruben’s father initiated the formation of a disabled Western Province fishing team. Last year marked the first time Ruben and the newly formed WP disabled team competed in the SA championship held annually at Bloemhof. This year’s championship will take place on 8 April.
Support needed
The family requires around R20 000 to cover petrol and accommodation costs for the championship trip. Over the past two years, they have received generous support from colleagues, friends, family and strangers, but understand they cannot rely on the same sponsors annually.
With Ruben turning 18 in March and having reached his academic threshold his parents are concerned about his future prospects. They are exploring the possibility of finding him work at a fishing shop and hope that his participation in competitive angling might lead to opportunities with prominent figures in the sport.
Anyone wishing to support Ruben can contact his parents Willem Labuschagne on 083 564 3397 or Rika Labuschagne on 082 783 9725. Donations can be made to the Western Province Freshwater Angling Association account.
