Semenya humbled by SA Sports Awards

The 2016 800m Olympic gold medallist was named Sportswoman of the Year, Sports Star of the Year as well as the People’s Choice award at the gala event in Bloemfontein.

It’s been another momentous year for the South African athlete. On the track, Semenya has continued to dominate the scene. The 27-year-old claimed the Commonwealth Games double, winning gold in both the 800m and 1500m in Australia. In addition, she was the Diamond League 800m champion in 2018 and won both the 400m and 800m titles in the African Athletics Championships.

Semenya told ECRSportswave that this has been a special year and that her efforts continue to inspire young South Africans to follow their dreams.

“2018 has been an incredible year for me and I have been able to grow from strength to strength. I am thankful for all the continued support I have received from the fans all over the world and my fellow South Africans, who keep me inspired. I want to continue to be a role model to the youth to show them that if you have a dream, go for it and never look back, focus on education and give as much effort to what you’re passionate about,” Semenya said.

Being recognised at the South African Sports Awards will serve as further motivation for the runner, but Semenya also gave credit to her coaching staff and management team for her success.

“I am also thankful to have a team as great as mine. They work tirelessly to keep me at the top of my game. Family is of utmost importance to me and they too remain my pillars of strength. With each award I receive I am encouraged to keep doing what I do. I love this sport because it chose me. I am looking forward to the future and to lending a hand to growing the future talent of our country in this field.”

Semenya's coach Samuel Sepeng received the awards on her behalf at the event, as the athlete is being writing exams according to her management team.

Awards winners

Sports star of the year:  Caster Semenya

Sportsman of the year: Chad le Clos

Sportswoman of the Year: Caster Semenya

Sportsman of the year with disability: Mdodozi Ntutu

Sportswoman of the year with disability: Anrune Liebenberg

Team of the year: Banyana Banyana

Newcomer of the year: Tatjana Schoenmaker

Coach of the year: Samuel Sepeng

Volunteer of the year: Linda Hlophe

Indigenous games team of the year: Morabaraba Team

The Recreation body of the year:  Mavu Sport Development

National Federation of the year: Softball

School team of the year: St Benedict’s College

Developing school of the year:  Machakela-Mamodibo Secondary School

Sport Administrator of the Year: Virginia Mabaso

People's Choice Award: Caster Semenya