HUNDREDS of attendees graced the prestigious Sport & Recreation Achievers Awards 2024 at the Boardwalk Hotel on Friday to proudly recognise and celebrate Eastern Cape sports excellence on and off the field.
The keynote address was delivered by Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts & Culture, Honourable Gayton McKenzie. He emphasised the transformative vision for local sports communities.
“It is highly imperative that rural athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds be empowered because they possess such immense talent that often goes unnoticed. We, as the government, are committed to increasing funding and resources, which will provide these athletes with access to proper nutrition and quality training equipment that will help them thrive and showcase their full talent.
“I will make sure that rural schools become a priority as far as sports opportunities are concerned. Our community must look after sports facilities so that our children can play there. Disability does not deter anyone from realizing their dreams.”
The Sportsman of the Year award and Sports Star of the Year went to Buffalo City Metro IBF junior lightweight world champion, Sivenathi Nontshinga, who received a trophy and a Volkswagen Polo courtesy of Joma Sport SA.
In the Recreation Volunteer category, a Nelson Mandela Bay local woman, Nwabisa Mahlahla, received an award. Local radio presenter Noloyiso Bonga also went home with an accolade.
Other awards won by Nelson Mandela Bay individuals and teams:
. School Team of the Year: Hoërskool Brandwag (powerlifting)
. Technical Official of the Year: Courtney Musson (artistic swimming)
. Sports Administrator of the Year: Mnonophelo Mfenqe (cricket)
. Coach of the Year: Cheslyn Gie (hockey)
. Newcomer of the Year: Rhys Burrell (cycling-indoor and track)
. Sportswoman of the Year Golden Age: Elizabeth Craig (swimming)
. Sportsman of the Year Golden Age: André Ludik (powerlifting)
. Sportsman of the Year for Persons with a Disability: Jaco Smit (para-athletics)
. Sportswoman of the Year: Anika Maree (powerlifting)
. MEC’s Excellence/Legends/Lifetime Awards: Herzon Damons (cricket and rugby), Charles Baartman (athletics), Macethandile Kulati (basketball)
. Recreation Body/Organization of the Year: Nelson Mandela Metro Recreation Council (recreation)
