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GEORGE NEWS AND VIDEO - Former Outeniqua High School (Kwagga) learner Jo-Ané van Dyk has fulfilled a lifelong dream that will fuel her promising athletics career for years to come.
On Saturday 10 August Van Dyk, the Worcester-born 26-year-old from Heidelberg in the Hessequa district, showed the world that growing up in a small town is no barrier to achieving great dreams.
She secured a silver medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics with an impressive javelin throw of 63.93m, earning team SA's sixth medal of the 2024 Olympics.
George Herald caught up with Van Dyk while she and her family were on holiday in Europe after her achievement.
"I'm still amazed," said an elated Van Dyk. "I knew what some of the other girls were capable of, and up until the last throw you can't be sure of anything… so I'm just happy. I'm happy for our country and for the team."
In the qualifying round, van Dyk launched the javelin an incredible 64.22 m, a throw that was not only her personal best but also put her in strong contention for a medal.
"Right now I'm taking time out with my family. Having them next to the field supporting me, and having them there to celebrate my medal with me really means a lot to me," Van Dyk said from a train somewhere in Europe.
As a four-time national champion, Van Dyk's name is now engraved in the history books.
She is looking forward to a busy few months with various international competitions, including events in Poland and Croatia, and her upcoming wedding in October.
"My fiancé is one of my biggest supporters and we will be working hard for the next four years towards a gold in LA," she says.
Van Dyk with her coach, Terseus Liebenberg after she qualified for the final with a throw of 64.22m.
However, success is not reached alone and besides the rock-solid support from her family and hubby-to-be, Van Dyk has a lot of gratitude towards her coach, Terseus Liebenberg, who also guided Sunette Viljoen to a silver medal at Rio 2016.
"He has been my coach for the last eight years and will remain my coach."
As Van Dyk continues to make strides in her career, she remains an inspiration for aspiring athletes in South Africa and beyond.
"No dream is ever too big, it doesn't matter what your background is. Dream big and trust in yourself and God and never give up."
VIDEO: George Herald caught up with Van Dyk while on a train on holiday in Europe:
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