Thor Pillay of Beaumont Primary solidified his status as one of the country’s most formidable young athletes, clinching gold at the South African Schools’ Championships at Green Point Stadium last month.
The 11-year-old Raithby resident excels in shotput. Taking the discipline up only in 2024, he spent the past year shattering records at nearly every level of the journey to the national podium, paved with broken records. It began at his school’s inter-house meet and continued through interschools, the Metropole East District meet, and the Western Province championships.
By the time the Grade 5 learner reached the Western Cape championships, Thor was was setting new benchmarks for those to follow.
At the SA Schools’ event the pressure reached its peak. “It was nerve-wracking, but I pushed through and came out on top at the end,” Thor said.
While he “just missed” the national record his performance was enough to secure the top spot in the country.
For Thor the appeal of the sport goes beyond the medals. “I enjoy meeting people and the experiences,” he pointed out, adding the discipline required for shotput translates directly into his other passion: rugby. “It helps with the strength and focus I need on the field.”
While the victories seem effortless from the sidelines, Thor’s parents, Brandon and Eloise, say the reality involves gruelling dedication.
“To accomplish this is inspiring,” Brandon said. “He practised every day. There were tears and anger; it’s not easy, it’s tough, but he made it, and we’re very proud.”
Athleticism runs deep in the Pillay household.
Thor’s 13-year-old brother, Hunter, is also a force to be reckoned with, currently holding the title of Boland High Schools champion in both shotput and discus for under-14.
Thor was quick to credit his support system for his success, offering a special “thank you” to his father, Brandon, and his coach, Edwill van der Westhuizen, a respected figure in the athletics community, whom he described as a “legend of the sport”.
Looking ahead to 2027, Thor doesn’t aim to slow down. As he moves into the under-12 division he has his sights set on mastering the discus and javelin, and earn his provincial colours in the latter.
He also hopes to represent both his school and province in the first-team rugby line-up.
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