Beneficiaries
Simoné Kruger
Simoné’s journey with disability traces back to a prenatal stroke that impacted the right side of her body, causing a loss of muscle memory connection to the brain. This necessitated her initiation into rehabilitation, aiming to reconstruct activities originating from the affected side, compounded by the loss of the left front of her brain during the stroke. Despite these early challenges, Simoné exhibited remarkable athletic prowess from a young age, and through unwavering determination and hard work, she elevated her abilities to a world-class competitive level.
Emile Burgers
I am a 17-year old rising South African sport star and am well on my way in securing a place in the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games.
I have been competing nationally and internationally for 10 years and my family and friends have always raised funds to cover my ever-growing costs of competing at this level. With the increasing number of international events I am invited to, I now need to consider alternative funding options.
Although only 17 years old, I am currently ranked 5 th for Javelin in the World
Mandilenè Hoffmann
At the age of 17, she confronts the challenges of EZH 2 Overgrowth Syndrome (Weaver Syndrome), a condition identified in 2015. Her journey with physical adversity began at the tender age of 8 when a corrective operation on her right knee, undertaken in 2012, failed to address chronic patella dislocation. Tragically, this procedure resulted in extensive damage to her nerves, muscles, growth plate, and patella in the affected leg. Compounded by patella displacement in both legs and hip tilting, she courageously faces the intricate complexities of her medical history with resilience and determination.
Von Zeuner Kohne
Von Zeuner (Vonnie) Kohne, one of our esteemed beneficiaries, faces the challenges of Spina Bifida, a birth defect impacting his back and legs. Undeterred by his condition, Vonnie embarked on the journey of pistol shooting in the 1990s, initially engaging in South African Pistol Association competitions alongside abled-bodied participants. His resilience and dedication to his chosen hobby stand as a testament to his indomitable spirit, inspiring others in our community.
Manie Blom
At 33 years old, Manie Blom navigates life as a partially sighted individual with a steadfast spirit. Classified as F12 (IPC), standing tall at 1.86m, and weighing 118kg, Manie has forged a remarkable path in education and career. Graduating with Matric from CVO Middelburg in 2004, he furthered his academic pursuits, earning certification as a Personal Trainer Specialist in 2009. Over the past seven years, he has passionately dedicated himself to the fitness industry, serving as a Personal Trainer at Virgin Active.
Manie can be reached at 072 591 2565 or through email at Manie.blom2197@gmail.com.
Maria Combrinck
Maria, a below-the-knee amputee, exudes a passion for throwing, weights, hiking, and diving. Notably, in 2017, she clinched the top spot in Women’s F44 Shot Put at the Nedbank National Championships, setting an improved African record and securing the 4th position in the current IPC World Rankings. Additionally, her prowess extended to Women’s F44 Discus, where she claimed another first-place victory, positioning her at the 8th rank globally. Beyond her athletic achievements, Maria actively engages in outreach efforts, collaborating with her prosthetist to conduct “Learn to Run” clinics, showcasing her dedication to empowering others in their journey towards mobility and strength.
Maria can be contacted via email at maria.meraai@gmail.com.
Arno Graaff
Arno GRAAFF is a young and up coming para-athlete with potential to represent South Africa in the future. He participates as a F46 athlete (right arm deformity) in Discus Throw, Shot Put and Javelin. At the 2024 Toyota National Championships held in Bloemfontein from 23 – 25 March, Arno participated and won 2 gold medals and 1 silver medal. He broke two South African records for F46 u20:
- Shot Put 10,65m SA Record
- Javelin 38,88m SA Record
- Discus 31,65m
For Arno to get onto World Para Athletics (WPA) ranking list, he needs to be classified internationally. After receiving an international classification, he will be able to participate in any international meeting and then his results will be placed on WPA rankings. If his performances are good enough to place him in the top 5 in the world, Arno might be eligible to be selected to represent South Africa at World Championships or Paralympic games.