WAYDE VAN NIEKERK’S coach Ans Botha emphasised there’s no shortcut to success.
Botha’s statement was evident as she guided Van Niekerk to scoop the SA Sports Star of the Year, Sportsman of the Year and People’s Choice Award at the SA Sports Awards in Bloemfontein last Sunday.
Botha has advised aspiring athletes to double their efforts if they want to follow in Van Niekerk’s footsteps.
Said Botha: “They should follow their dream, work hard and be dedicated. They should be thankful to coaches and people who are helpful in their careers. They should try to be at training on time, so that they can work extra hard to reach their dreams.”
The 74-year-old became the oldest coach in Mzansi’s history to win the coveted SA Coach of the Year Award at the same event.
“I feel so humbled, blessed and honoured. But most of all, I thank my Lord who blessed me with the love and passion for what I’m doing. But also for health and physical strength to be there each an every day for my athletes and to go with Wayde to Europe every year to do finishing touches for big events like the World Champs and the Olympic Games.”
Botha revealed having people who look after her health has been key to her athletes’ success.
“I try to look after myself in many ways and I have so many people who care for me, especially Wayde and our manager, Peet Van Zyl.”
Botha insisted that passion in her job is what separates her from other coaches.
“I love athletics and I have a passion for what I’m doing.
“My goal is to help young people who approach me, saying ‘please can I join your group’. Each one of them has dreams and the moment they come to me their goals also become my dreams.”
Botha is not about to retire anytime soon.
“Many people ask me when am I going to stop? You don’t get old because of the years you are living. You grow old the moment you let go of your dreams, goals and enthusiasm.
“When you let go of that, it causes wrinkles,” she said.
