South African teenager Lara Markthaler is the nation’s only representative at this year’s Youth Winter Olympics.
Held in the South Korean city of Gangwon from 19 January to 1 February, 16-year-old Lara will participate in the Olympics as an alpine skier.
‘I’ve never been to Asia, so I am looking forward to the full experience,’ Lara said before leaving for Gangwon.
‘I really want to use these Youth Olympics to gain more experience and I’m one of the youngest competitors in my event. Obviously, I am going there with a goal and that would be to break into the top 20.’
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‘Anything more than that would be a bonus at this stage of my career and I’ll be trying my hardest to get as high on the leaderboard as I can. I also want to tap into the whole Olympic spirit.’
The president of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC), Barry Hendricks, confirmed that SASCOC will provide as much support as possible to the athlete and her team.
‘We wish Lara and her support structure the very best. This event is also a leadership learning experience. We look forward to her sharing her experiences in South Korea with her friends and federation. It’s a great life experience for all involved.’
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Lara grew up in the German Alps and has been skiing since she was 18 months old. Apart from four years living in Canada, she and her family have been based in Germany.
‘We’re a very close-knit family,’ Lara said, speaking to the fact that her mother is her nutritionist and her father is her coach.
‘I’m home-schooled and in the equivalent of Grade 11. I study and do my exams online. In Europe everyone skis and I belong to a ski team of five. We are outdoors every day and I love the lifestyle.’
According to Team SA, Lara’s mother, Judy, said, ‘It really is hard work, but all the sacrifices are worth it.’
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SASCOC CEO Ms Nozipho Jafta expressed support, saying ‘Our heartiest congratulations go to Lara for qualifying for the Gangwon 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games. She will move into the Olympic village on 16 January ahead of the opening ceremony.’
‘African nations are not regular participants at a Winter Youth Olympic Games mainly due to geographical reasons with very little snow of competition quality experienced on the continent, so we are proud that South Africa will have representation at these Games. Lara is an inspiration and we are all behind her.’
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Picture: Team South Africa