Semenya nets three awards

Wesley Bo on

Caster Semenya (above) stole the show with an historic achievement on Sunday night, receiving three accolades at the SA Sport Awards in Bloemfontein.

Semenya, who earned double gold at the Commonwealth Games and the African Championships during a record-breaking season, was named South African Sportswoman of the Year for the third season in a row.

Having also received the accolade in 2012, she became the first athlete to secure the award four times in any category.

In addition, she took home the Sports Star of the Year trophy for the first time, as well as the People’s Choice accolade, which was decided by public vote, for the second year in succession.

Semenya’s coach Samuel Sepeng had to make four trips on stage. With his best athlete missing the gala ceremony, Sepeng accepted Semenya’s awards on her behalf, as well as the Coach of the Year accolade for himself.

“To the lovely people of South Africa, on behalf of Mokgadi (Semenya), we thank you for the support,” Sepeng said.

Swimmer Chad le Clos, who was also absent from the annual awards event, was named Sportsman of the Year, reclaiming the crown he lifted in 2014 after raking in five medals at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

In other categories, swimmer Tatjana Schoenmaker was unveiled as Newcomer of the Year for securing double gold at the Commonwealth Games, becoming the first swimmer since Le Clos in 2011 to receive the gong.