Help Daniel reach his modern pentathlon
KNYSNA - Just over a year ago, Daniel Kolver, a Grade 11 high-school pupil from Knysna High School, set his eyes on the goal to achieve national colours in modern pentathlon - and now he is well on his way to the top.
Modern pentathlon is an Olympic sport consisting of fencing (one-touch épée), freestyle swimming, obstacle course racing, laser pistol shooting, and cross country running.
The 16-year-old athlete started training with relentless commitment, pushing through limits and honing skills with unwavering focus.
It required countless hours of training, pushing through pain barriers, overcoming injuries and sacrificing personal time, but it was all worth it when he qualified to compete at the South African modern pentathlon championships in April in Somerset West.
Daniel came out tops at this prestigious event and did not only win the U19 category but also achieved his Junior Protea Colours.
Better still, he received an invitation to compete at the modern pentathlon Junior World Championship and African Championship in Egypt at the end of June. This achievement is a testament to his hard work, perseverance and passion for the sport.
The Knysna High School community values and encourages excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities and, therefore, celebrates such accomplishments within and with the wider Knysna
community. Daniel's achievement not only reflects his individual talent, but also brings honour to our town and its people.
This overseas event will carry a huge cost of about R60 000 which is the price of travel, accommodation, visas, competition fees as well an international standard fencing kit. The fencing kit Daniel has been using is not allowed at international competitions.
In the light of this Knysna High says, "We're reaching out to our community to help raise enough funds for Daniel to attend the World Championship and earn his Junior Protea colours. We have founded a campaign on Back-a-Buddy (https://www. backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-danielgo-to-world-championships) to raise funds. Donations big or small will all go a long way to covering the expenses and help Daniel reach his dream."