Masutha focused on his Olympic dream
SOUTH Africa’s Thabelo Masutha, one of the world’s leading Under-23 rowers, is looking to make a major impact when he graduates to the senior level competition.
Over the past four years, Masutha has medalled at various age-group international events and now deservedly he is a member of the country’s elite squad that will be preparing for the Olympics.
SA rowing is greatly admired in world circles ever since the lightweight men’s four won gold at the 2012 London Olympics. The ‘Awesome Foursome’, as the goldwinning quartet was known, were drawn from a small pool of athletes under the guidance of Roger Barrow, who is regarded as one of the world’s leading rowing coaches. He won world acclaim after lifting the 2016 Rowing Coach of the Year gong.
Ever since 2012, South Africa have claimed a plethora of podium places at world events every year. Now every SA boat will be considered a medal prospect at future events, including the Olympic Games.
Masutha has emerged as one of the brightest prospects on the horizon and will be a strong contender for future national senior teams. He accepts, however, there will be challenges, more so in these times of uncertainty.
“It is always difficult not knowing what happens next but now is a good time to focus on myself and training,” said Masutha.
“No-one knows what is going to happen tomorrow, so I have to take each day and really just think about making that day great. That is the only way I think anyone can move closer to that Olympic dream during times like this.”
The national lockdown has presented its unique challenges and athletes like Masutha have found ways of staying active.
“I have been training on my own during the lockdown on the indoor rowing machine, a stationary bike, in a parking lot and using weights.
“I have made progress with training because now with this extra time there are no distractions. It is almost the same as a training camp, just that it is at home.
“I don’t find lockdown has affected my mental drive. I’m more focused and more aggressive now. Having rowed the single for many years I’m used to doing most my training on my own.
“My goals for the Olympic Games are exactly the same. I am still set on making the SA fours and that I am fast enough to qualify it with the crew.
“Having the Games postponed is a blessing in disguise. I have changed disciplines from sculling to sweep and I have more time to brush up on my technique.
“I am in a difficult spot because as the top Under-23 rower, I’m knocking on the door of a really good senior team. I need to change this mindset of being a top Under-23 performer by delivering performances which will be of a high standard on the senior world stage.”
Masutha, who competes in the colours of the University of Pretoria, features in a recently released documentary which has been compiled by South African rowers and national team sponsors Rand Merchant Bank (RMB).
Rowing SA official Blake Dyason said the documentary is available on Showmax and online.
“It is a beautiful story of our (South African) rowers coming from diverse backgrounds and overcoming challenges and winning,” said Dyason.
“It is relevant, and I believe it will give South Africans hope during these challenging times.”
If the Olympic dream materialises for Masutha he could follow in the footsteps of Sizwe Ndlovu, who became the first black South African rower to win Olympic gold.
Ndlovu was a member of the ‘Awesome Foursome’ at the 2012 London Olympics.