The two things that matter to Hannah Hope Vermaak are facts and speed; for her it is all about the faster the better.
That’s why she’s going to study law at the University of Pretoria this year. Her goal is to make a difference in people’s lives in a few years.
“Helping people, especially in difficult times, is something I’m very passionate about. That’s why facts are important to me. I don’t like it when people use words like allegedly when it comes to facts. I want the real facts in front of me,” said the 18-year-old Vermaak.
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The one real fact in Vermaak’s life is that she is considered one of the upcoming female sprinters in South Africa. She is the South African under-20 champion in the 100 and 200 meters. At the South African senior championships, she caused an upset, winning bronze in the 200 metres, being only 17.
Another highlight last year was her 100-meter victory in 11.44 seconds at the Botswana Golden Grand Prix in Gaborone. Christine Mboma (Namibia), a former Olympic silver medalist in the 200-meter, was also in action that race.
Vermaak’s time of 11.44 seconds is among the fastest by a South African female sprinter over the past five years. Only four athletes have run faster times.
Born in Ghana on October 5, 2007, Vermaak’s life changed forever when she was adopted by South African parents at just two years old. It was as a learner at Hoërskool Noordheuwel in Krugersdorp that she discovered her passion for speed. As an athlete, she believes in the principle of what you put in is what you get out.
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“I really love running. I know if I train hard enough, I’ll be able to do something amazing later. My big goal is to qualify for the World Junior Championships and to improve my times. But it’s important not to be obsessed about being faster. If I run a better time, that’s great; if I don’t, it’s not the end of the world. It just means I’ll have to work harder.”
According to Vermaak, she prefers to compete in the 100 meters. Her running style, especially her arms, is a strong point.
“I definitely need to work on improving my start and top speed.”
Vermaak’s choice of role model may surprise many. It’s not every day that an older athlete looks up to a younger athlete. But for Vermaak, Oluchi Ndubueze, the South African under-18 100 meter and long jump champion, is a role model.
“She taught me to stay calm. According to her, what happens, happens, you have to accept it. Oluchi is also one of the most humble people I know. Overall she is just an incredible person.”
To relax, the Tuks student enjoys reading. Thrillers are her thing. She is also an avid photographer.
I’m so proud of Hannah Hope!