Benefactor helps star water polo player reach her dream

WATER polo player, Thembelihle Mkhize, 16, will jet off to Australia to represent South Africa at the First Fina Junior World Cup Championship next month.

This after a good Samaritan came to the rescue of the water polo enthusiast by sponsoring her travel expenses. Two weeks ago the Sunday Tribune reported on Thembelihle’s need for financial assistance and, in response, Illovo Sugar Limited offered to pay R25 000 towards her travel and accommodation costs.

Overjoyed with emotion, the Kloof High pupil said she still could not believe she would participate in the World Cup. “I am very excited because I didn’t have the money to cover all the costs. I am relieved and really appreciate that Illovo has sponsored me. I am grateful.”

Thembelihle said she was hoping to do well at the World Cup, which starts on November 29. “Preparations for the tournament are going well and I believe that we will achieve something,” she said.

Added her mother Gugu: “I am very proud. She is representing the country and showing other black people that there are no boundaries in sports. Water polo is one of the elite sports, but anyone can do it. I hope she has been a good example to other children. This is more than just sports for her. I am beyond happy for the sponsorship, I can’t even express how I feel.”

Darrell de Wet, marketing and communications manager of Illovo Sugar Limited said Thembelihle is an inspiration for reaching this level in water polo while still excelling academically.

“She certainly has shown courage and strong leadership characteristics. We are delighted that our support will grant her this unique experience; an experience that will build her in confidence, build her in character and, on her return, be an even stronger leader for her school and maybe someday her country. We wish her a successful trip, but most of all a great learning experience,” he said.