Tshediso Lephaila, a 15-year-old athlete from Dr Böhmer Secondary School in Bloemfontein, has received a sponsorship of cycling equipment consisting of a bike, helmet, cycling shoes and cycling clothing to the value of R30 000 from the Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation.
Boitumelo Lephaila, Tshediso’s mother, took it upon herself to go to the department to enquire about any available sponsorships for her son, since the lack of adequate equipment prevented Tshediso from performing at his best. She had to then make a formal request by mail or letter addressed to the Head of Department’s office.
Free State Triathlon, together with Tshediso’s coach, drafted a letter to the department on the family’s behalf, which started the process of acquiring the sponsorship.
After a three-month wait, Tshediso received his equipment at the handover of sport equipment and attire to the Xhariep District farm schools on 16 April which was hosted by the Free State Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, as well as the Education Department.
According to Free State Triathlon, Tshediso’s time for both cycling and running has improved since he received the equipment.
Walter Kotze, Head of Sport at Dr Böhmer Secondary School, said Tshediso is a quiet and humble leaner. “I was informed that he had received a sponsorship from the department and we are proud of him.”
Tshediso will participate in duathlon events of Free State Triathlon. The Free State championships will take place on 15 May at Brandkop, after which a Free State team will be selected to participate in the South African Duathlon Championships in Port Elizabeth on 20 June.
Tshediso’s mother would like to express her gratitude to the Department of Sport for the sponsorship, and for the opportunity Tshediso received with this to start his sports career in duathlon.
Free State Triathlon said, “Tshediso biggest dream is to represent South Africa at the Duathlon World Championships one day.”
Justine Fortuin
