A disabled Cradock-born powerlifting
professional has been selected to represent South Africa at the
World Abilitysport Games from December 1 to 9 – but the competition is
self-funded, costing tens of thousands of rands.
Xolani Ndatya recently won a competition in Gauteng where he
won second place.
Speaking to Komani-Karoo Express from his hometown, Ndatya
said when his coach, Elisabeth Barry, informed him of his chances of
representing the country, he pushed himself even harder.
The letter from the South African Sport Association for the
Physically Disabled (SASAPD), which Komani-Karoo Express has a copy of, was
exciting and life-changing for Ndatya.
“This means
there is nothing impossible in life if you are focused. I am very excited even
now. I have been focusing and working hard on my training since 2018 and never
looked back,” said Ndatya.
The most
difficult and grueling task ahead is securing sponsors to be able to attend the
competition.
The
total cost for entries, accommodation, flights, and miscellaneous expenses is
R45 000 and the competition is between December 1 to 9.
“I must start
looking for sponsorship and try fundraising but now I’m still blank. I have not
been able to secure any money so far. Anyone who can assist me by donating some
funds I’d be very glad. People can contact me at 073 945 9987 or WhatsApp the
same number,” Ndatya said.
His sentiments
were shared by Barry, who said all costs for the athletes and coaches were
self-funded as there was no government funding provided.
“This
will be the biggest obstacle for these athletes to compete unless generous benefactors
can be found. The total cost for entries, accommodation, flights, and
miscellaneous expenses is approximately R45 000. It would be a shame that
someone who is so committed would be unable to attend and represent his country
due to a lack of funding,” she said.
Barry said as
his coach, she would be disappointed as Ndatya had poured his heart and soul
towards attaining this achievement.
“Xolani has worked hard to get to where he is today and
is a humble, quiet-spoken athlete. He is a dedicated individual who puts in the
time and effort to train. The next few months are crucial to perfecting the technique
and working towards getting the totals needed for the competition,” said Barry.
“It has been a long road to
get our Para powerlifting athletes acknowledged and entered into an
international competition. This is the start of their journey to possibly
compete in the Paralympic in
the future and get an international ranking.”
