SCHOOL NEWS - Two learners of Carpe Diem School excelled at the recent Toyota South African Sports Association for the Physically Disabled's (SASAPD) National Boccia Championships in Stellenbosch, competing among South Africa's top athletes.

Amvuyele Manyana and Ibanathi Mngcolomba, alongside his ramp operator Daizene Ruiters, returned with several medals. Ibanathi won bronze in the BC3 male individual category, while Amvuyele took bronze in the BC4 female individual.

In pairs, Ibanathi and Elanza Jordaan (WCSAPD, Cape Town) earned gold in the BC3 mixed pairs, and Amvuyele and Thominic von Schlicht (WCSAPD, Cape Town) silver in the BC4 mixed pairs.

"A special word of recognition goes to Daizene, who plays a vital role in the BC3 competition," said Carpe Diem's principal, Elzeth Grobler. In this classification, athletes have severe physical impairments and use a ramp to deliver the ball. The ramp operator assists by positioning the ramp under the athlete's direction, without looking at play, making trust and teamwork essential. Daizene shares fully in this achievement and is awarded the same medal.

Boccia is a precision ball sport designed specifically for athletes with physical disabilities, requiring strategy, control and intense focus. The BC3 and BC4 classifications cater for athletes with more severe activity limitations. BC3 athletes use assistive devices such as ramps, while BC4 athletes compete without assistive devices, but may have significant impairments affecting strength.

"The school also wishes to thank Adam Mostert for the safe and punctual transport of the learners throughout the competition, and Michelle Morey Bezuidenhout for her excellent management and organisation," said Grobler.

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