GEORGE NEWS - The planned combination of the Eden High Schools and Athletics South Western Districts (ASWD) Championships, originally scheduled at Rosemoor Stadium for 27 and 28 February, has been moved to alternative venues.

In a letter dated 16 February, ASWD's general manager, Soraya de Reuck, informed the schools that the ASWD Championships will now take place at Outeniqua High School on 5 March and at the De Jager Stadium in Oudtshoorn on 6 and 7 March, while the Eden High Schools Championships will take place at Outeniqua High School this weekend, 27 and 28 February.

George Herald sought clarity from ASWD, the George Municipality and the Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie, on the relocation of the Eden High Schools and ASWD Championships from Rosemoor Stadium, questioning the venue's readiness, historical concerns, accreditation and the progress made to address long-standing infrastructure and logistical issues.

The hammer throw and discus safety cage at Rosemoor Stadium is not functional. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel

George Municipality confirmed it was not involved in the scheduling decisions. The municipality's spokesperson, Chantèl Edwards, added that the Rosemoor synthetic track is a phased development project, implemented according to available funding and Council priorities. "Since completion, the track has had an immediate and meaningful impact on local schools and athletes. Formal partnerships with schools and Athletics SWD ensure its active use across all age groups. Positive feedback from users and the broader community confirms its value. The recent primary and high school events in January demonstrate the facility's functionality and demand," Edwards said.

The track holds World Athletics Level 2 certification, and additional equipment is expected to further enhance usability. Edwards stated that the municipality remains committed to developing quality sporting infrastructure, but could not comment on the Oudtshoorn venues.

De Reuck explained the events were moved due to logistical constraints. "There is no equipment at the stadium, seating cannot accommodate all athletes and spectators, and the finish line is on the western side with no space for spectators." 

She added that Outeniqua High School has long hosted pole vault and hammer throw events prior to the championships. The high schools have also decided against using Rosemoor due to limited time for athlete registration and competition clothing requirements.

A source informed George Herald there was also no power or space for timekeeping personnel at the finish line, which makes accurate timekeeping impossible.

 The struggle is real: Athletes must bring their own equipment to train at Rosemoor Stadium. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel 

Historical concerns about Rosemoor date back to 2018 and include insufficient space, parking, warm-up areas, disaster management plans, spectator seating and toilet facilities. Additional land from a neighbouring school was proposed to address some of these issues.

In 2024, ASWD highlighted that the stadium did not meet Athletics SA standards for sanctioned events or large school competitions. Concerns included the temporary pavilion on the eastern side, dependency on adjacent land for a permanent stadium, and lack of comprehensive master planning.

Limited uncovered seating is available on the eastern side of Rosemoor track. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel

As for the progress and accreditation, De Reuck said ASWD was awaiting a meeting with the George Municipality before commenting.

Mackenzie's office had not responded by the time of going to press.

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