Para-athlete, Simone Kruger, who competes in discus throw and shot-put events at international track and field competitions says she is ready to compete in Paris at the 2024 Games. Simone highlights that it is thanks to her support system including her father as a coach, family as a whole and most of all God for always being there for her. Thanks to this, she is now confident and ready
Simone recalled the time when she had stroke and thought she was going to die, however, through the grace of God and people around her, she is alive and thankful for a second chance at life. After recovering from the stroke, she took it as her chance to shine. Earlier this year, Simone was recognised by Athletics South Africa after her outstanding performance, walking away with gold medal at the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships in Paris where she set a new record with a throw of 38.1m. Again, this year, Simone broke her own world record to get her second gold medal by winning the women’s F38 discus throw at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships in Japan.
To other athletes she says when the going gets tough, “just know that nothing is impossible, however, it is up to you to make it possible through working hard, always putting extra efforts, not giving up or listening to what other people say to you negatively. There will always be hardships but persevere until you make it.”
When asked if she knows about Bidvest OPEX programme, Simone says, “Wow, the biggest thing that the Bidvest OPEX programme did for me was when my dad, who is my coach and inspiration could go with me to Paris as a personal coach on my contract, with all expenses fully paid by the programme. And because he was there, I think that is one of the reasons why I got my gold medals in Paris and Japan.”
According to Simone, her dad was also into men’s discus but did not go far with it due to the lack of support during his time. Now, he takes it upon himself to do everything possible for Simone to succeed and always reminds her of the opportunities being provided to her by Bidvest OPEX and SASCOC. Simone and her father use some of the techniques learnt from the late coach Pierre Blignaut in their training ahead of the Paris Games.
In closing, Simone says, “I would like to say thanks to Bidvest. If it wasn’t for your support, I wouldn’t be here today. Whatever the outcomes in Paris, please know that you have played your role and provided the necessary support one could long for. To my dad, mother and sister, thank you for all your support and being my pillar of strength.”