Gauteng best friends qualify for Tokyo Olympics next month

TWO best friends and teammates from the West Rand in Johannesburg have made South African gymnastic history by qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics.

Coach Ilse Pelser said there was much happiness as Naveen Daries and Caitlin Rooskrantz, both 19, qualified for the games, which start on July 23.

“There is just happiness all around. The girls worked very hard to qualify. They train six days a week for an average of 26 hours per week and are coached by a dedicated team of coaches that include Leeland Christian, Candice Cronje, Anke Badenhorst and myself. We always push them to be the best they can be,” Pelser said.

Daries also made history when she and her younger sister, Zelme, were the first women’s team represented by sisters at the Cairo World Challenge Cup in Egypt.

Daries said the Olympic Games was a dream come true and that she was pleased to see her hard work paying off.

“I am extremely proud and am thankful to our coaches for not giving up on us because it’s not always easy, but they are always there for us.

“It is truly heart-warming to see that all the hours spent in the gym are paying off.”

Rooskrantz said she was happy she made it to the team with her best friend.

“Surrounding yourself with people who share the same goals as you is what got us here. I am extremely excited to have made it this far with my best friend, Naveen, and I know we will motivate each other.

“I believe that no matter how many times you fall, what matters is that you get up again. The comeback is always stronger than the setback.”

The pair said they were determined to do their best and make their coaches, families, teammates and the country proud.