Sports

Eastern Cape Primary Schools Athletics Championships Open in Komani

Published

1 month ago

March 6, 2026

Eastern Cape Primary Schools Athletics Championships Open in Komani

Komani has become the centre of youth athletics in the Eastern Cape as the Provincial Primary Schools Athletics Championships officially got underway on Thursday 5 March at the Queen’s College Boys’ High School Recreational Grounds.

The event is hosted by the Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) in partnership with the Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC) and Eastern Cape Schools Athletics (ECSA). The championships bring together young athletes from education districts across the province to compete in a range of track and field events.

The championships aim to provide primary school learners with a platform to showcase their athletic abilities while promoting sportsmanship, teamwork and healthy competition.

Colourful Parade Marks Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony began with a vibrant parade as athletes representing various districts marched onto the field. Teams proudly displayed their district colours while supporters filled the stands at the historic recreational grounds.

The parade symbolised the start of a major sporting event for primary school learners, many of whom are experiencing provincial-level competition for the first time.

Welcome Address Encourages Young Athletes

During the opening programme, ECDoE School Health and Learner Enrichment Director Yandisa Plata delivered a keynote address welcoming athletes, educators and guests.

The address emphasised the importance of participation in sport as part of learner development, encouraging athletes to perform at their best while demonstrating respect and discipline throughout the competition.

The event highlights the Eastern Cape’s commitment to developing young sporting talent and promoting active lifestyles among learners.

Officials Take Oath Ahead of Competition

Before the start of the athletic contests, technical officials took an oath to ensure that all events are conducted fairly and according to the rules of athletics.

The oath was led by Thosamile Vanqa, a technical official from the Amathole East Education District, symbolising the commitment to fair competition and professional officiating during the championships.

Athlete Represents Competitors in Oath

The athletes’ oath was read by Anobuhle Fana, a young competitor representing the Amathole West Education District.

By taking the oath on behalf of fellow athletes, the learner pledged that competitors would participate honestly, respect the rules of athletics, and compete in the spirit of sportsmanship.

ECSA Leadership Reflects on the Event

Freddy Jacobs, Deputy Chairperson of the Eastern Cape Schools Athletics (ECSA), addressed those attending the opening ceremony.

He expressed appreciation to athletes, educators, organisers and supporters who travelled from across the province to participate in the championships.

Jacobs also reflected on the significance of the event as a platform for identifying future athletic talent while fostering unity among schools in the Eastern Cape.

Young Talent Set to Shine

The championships will see learners competing in a wide variety of athletics events, including sprints, middle-distance and long-distance races, relays, and field events such as long jump and shot put.

For many of the young competitors, the event represents an important opportunity to measure themselves against the best athletes from other districts and gain valuable competitive experience.

Large crowds of teachers, parents and supporters are expected to attend throughout the championships to encourage the learners as they compete.

Boost for School Sport in Komani

Hosting the championships in Komani highlights the town’s role as a key sporting hub within the Chris Hani District.

The Queen’s College Recreational Grounds, with its tartan track and large spectator facilities, provides a suitable venue for the province’s top primary school athletes to compete.

Events such as these also contribute to local community engagement, bringing visitors and sporting activity into the town while celebrating youth achievement.