True to the Summies motto nil sine labore (Nothing without hard work), Grade 7 learner Canaan Eksteen has been recognised for putting his shoulder to the wheel, achieving distinctions in both academics and sport at Somerset West Primary School.
Canaan beams with pride and accomplishment, and rightly so. He was awarded the Victor Ludorum in athletics, obtained Western Province and Western Cape colours in athletics, is the WP boys under-13 100 m and 200 m champion, Western Cape under-13 100 m champion and silver medallist in the 200 m, South African Schools 100 m and 200 m silver medallist, and 100 m gold medallist.
He was also chosen for the under-13 WP Craven Week rugby squad and WP under-13 7s rugby. Furthermore, he plays under-13A cricket for the school and excels in high and long jump.
And to top it all, Canaan is Summies’ head boy this year and, academically, has obtained an average of 79% in the third term.
He is now preparing for the Top 10 Athletics Meeting scheduled to be hosted by Lochnerhof Primary on Saturday 22 October, and will also focus on cricket in the last term.
Canaan is grateful to Somerset West Primary for always throwing its support behind him and guiding his talents for him to reach his potential.
“I’m confident there’s a lot more to come. At high school next year, I want to work hard to further develop myself in athletics and rugby. I just want to continue competing and pushing myself to reaching the highest level.”
But it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. Canaan reflected on the difficulties he experienced when all school sport was cancelled during lockdown.
“I still focused on my fitness at home, where I ran on a treadmill daily. I also practised at Charles Morkel Stadium daily; I still do. I was so happy when restrictions lifted, and this year everything opened and I was able to measure myself. It’s been so much fun and so rewarding.”
Herman Poole, deputy principal and head of sport, said the school prides itself in mass participation, giving all learners the opportunity to apply their talent and develop in sport.
“We’re sad to lose him as he leaves for high school next year,” he said. “He’s captain of the athletics team and a leader among his peers. He stands out and others follow – that’s what we expect from our learners, to go all out and remain loyal.
“Canaan has made the school extremely proud at district and provincial level, and always tallies points for the school at interschool meetings. We’re very proud of his dedication, hard work, discipline and demeanour.”
The school’s sprint coach Shaun Stewart was acknowledged for assisting, advising and nurturing Canaan.
Canaan stands by the saying: Once a Summie, always a Summie. “My message to fellow learners and peers is you can excel in academics and sport if you put in the hard work; the success will definitely follow.”
