From a clay brick factory to SA marathon record holder
GERT Thys, the current South African Marathon record holder, traces his remarkable journey back to the humble town of Prieska. Growing up there,
Thys found his calling in running during a school inter-house competition in 1984. Witnessing a schoolmate’s prowess on the track ignited a fire within him, prompting a determined pledge to step into the athletic arena the following year.
In 1985, Thys faced off against a friend who had dominated the previous year’s event, emerging victorious in the 3,000-metre race. However, fate intervened as his friend transferred to Upington, altering the trajectory of Thys’s athletic pursuits. Nevertheless, his passion for running remained undimmed.
Financial struggles loomed large over Thys’s aspirations. After school, he toiled in a clay brick factory, earning meagre wages barely enough to sustain his family. The strenuous routine took a toll on his health, necessitating frequent visits to the Kimberley hospital from 1986 to 1988.
To ease the financial burden,
Thys enrolled in a government food program. However, the threat of being separated from his family due to his health condition loomed large. In response, he and his mother sought employment at the owner’s shop, working tirelessly to support their family’s needs.
Thys’s journey through athletics was fraught with challenges, including a lack of recognition and racial discrimination. Yet, his unwavering dedication eventually earned him acknowledgment, reinforcing his commitment to his dreams.
His athletic endeavours led him back to his hometown, where he had a memorable encounter with President Nelson Mandela. Reflecting on this experience, Thys underscores the transformative power of perseverance and dedication in sports.
While proud of his South African record, Thys remains cognizant of the hurdles ahead. He aspires to witness further milestones in South African athletics, extending his heartfelt wishes for future accomplishments on both local and international stages.
Thys’s aspirations extend beyond the track. Despite financial constraints, he envisions establishing his own line of sporting apparel, encompassing everything from running shoes to gear for sports like soccer and rugby. “This remains my foremost ambition, driven by a passion for both athletics and entrepreneurship,” Thys says, highlighting his determination to pursue his dreams beyond the realm of sports.
Thys’s story embodies resilience and determination, serving as an inspiration to aspiring athletes. As he prepares for the Berlin Marathon, he confronts financial obstacles but remains resolute in his pursuit of excellence in both running and entrepreneurship.