Kimberley’s Olympian brings home gold
A WARM welcome awaited Kimberley’s very own Donavon Metebesi when he touched down at the Kimberley Airport on Tuesday after making his mark at the Special Olympics held in Germany from June 7 to June 26. It was clear that his loved ones had eagerly awaited his return.
The talented 26-year-old athlete represented South Africa in table tennis, and thanks to his skills and determination, returned home with a gold and a bronze medal. His outstanding performances have not only made his friends and family proud but has also highlighted the potential of athletes with disabilities.
Recounting his experience at the Olympics, Donavon described the competition as challenging, due to matches taking place every day. However, despite the intensity, he persevered and emerged victorious, holding his head high as he proudly displayed his gold and bronze medals.
Reflecting on his recent achievements, Donavon expressed immense pride in bringing home a gold medal for his country, his province, and his loved ones. He emphasised the hard work and dedication he had poured into his training, saying that the feeling of being rewarded for his efforts was truly gratifying.
Meanwhile, Donavon’s Aunt, Miena Metebesi, spoke about her pride and admiration for her nephew’s accomplishments, commending his unwavering commitment. She also stressed the importance of qualified coaches in nurturing the potential of athletes.
She further emphasised the need for coaches to possess the necessary qualifications and expertise in their respective sports as this would, she said, greatly enhance the athletes’ chances of achieving success in the future.
Donavon and his family also made a point of expressing their thanks to Clifford Sekgoro. According to the family, Sekgoro went out of his way to make it possible for Donavon to be able to go to Germany. Through the financial donations that he obtained and the flight tickets he secured, Donavon could realise his dreams of competing in the special Olympics, and for this Donavon and his family are extremely grateful.
Donavon told the DFA that he was particularly impressed with Germany and its people. He expressed admiration for their love of sports and their dedication to promoting athletic excellence. The vibrant sports culture in the country left a lasting impression on the young Kimberlite, fueling his own passion for sports and inspiring him to advocate for greater support and exposure for various sporting codes here, back home.
Speaking with the DFA, Donavon expressed his desire to see sports like table tennis, floor hockey, and boccia gain more prominence in his province, saying that increased emphasis on these sporting codes would provide athletes with more opportunities and exposure, ultimately fostering growth and success in these disciplines.
But Donovan is not going to bask in the glory of his Special Olympics medal haul for long. He is already looking ahead to his next challenge, and is now focused on the winter games in Italy.
He said that getting to Italy was no joke and outlined the rigorous selection process, starting with district games, followed by provincial and national games. The best athletes will then be chosen to represent their country in the winter games.
Donavon then sprung a surprise, telling the DFA that though he fared so well at table tennis, his aim is to participate in floor hockey in Italy, and is determined to train hard to secure his spot on the team.
With his remarkable performance at the Special Olympics in Germany Donavon hopes that he has also inspired and encouraged others. Making the cut for a touring team is never simple, in fact it’s very tough, but his dedication, perseverance, and love for his sport serve as a testament to the incredible abilities of athletes with disabilities. An example that others can certainly emulate.
Now, as Donavon gears up for the Winter Games in Italy, his family, friends, city and nation eagerly await another chapter in his sporting journey, hoping to witness him once again being rewarded for his indomitable spirit and talent.