A 31.88-meter record-breaking throw on a world stage has earned University of Johannesburg (UJ) student-athlete, Yane van der Merwe, a silver medal at the 2024 World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Dubai on 13 February 2024.
There is great excitement about Van der Merwe this year, who has a lower limb deficiency and participates in the F44 category. This deficiency does not stop the University of Johannesburg student from working hard to achieve her goals.
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Van der Merwe competed in the discus class F44, finishing a touch behind Norway’s Ida Nesse who won a gold medal in the same competition.
“I bagged the silver with a new African and South African Record of 31.88-meter mark. This is not the result I wanted, but I will take it due to circumstances! The throwing circle/ring was too slippery, I even threw around wearing takkies and slipped,” van der Merwe to UJ Sports after winning the silver medal.
Van der Merwe, who has a packed competition schedule ahead in 2024, said that the Grand Prix was a good learning opportunity and start to the season. “I can only go up from here. I’m looking forward to this year’s Paralympic Games in Paris, France,” she said.
The Grand Prix serves as a springboard and preparation for the Para Olympics in Paris. 2024 marked the 11th consecutive year the tournament has been hosted in Dubai, as the city has been part of the Grand Prix since its inaugural edition in 2013.
Organized by the Dubai Club for People of Determination, the city has become a true staple and always throws huge moments our way. Whether it be the yearly Grand Prix events or World Championships such as the 2019 installment, magic always follows.
Yane is poised to make a mark at the 2024 Paris Para Olympics. This South African athlete is gunning for glory and could be one of the Games’ breakout stars. Keep an eye on her!
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