The Mangaung Athletics Stadium in Bloemfontein came alive with energy and celebration as the 2025 National Schools Athletics Championships drew to a close. Among the standout moments was the Eastern Cape team’s impressive performance in the 4x400m relays, claiming double silver medals to the delight of cheering supporters.
By the conclusion of the Championships, Team EC had proudly secured 4th place overall, bringing home a total of 26 medals 9 gold, 6 silver, and 11 bronze. The official closing ceremony confirmed the results and celebrated the achievements of all participating provinces.
The Championships are a flagship initiative, aimed at ensuring that all South African learners both in primary and high schools have access to organised sport and the chance to compete in at least one sporting code during their school careers. Hosted in Bloemfontein from 2–6 April, the event welcomed 134 young athletes from the Eastern Cape, selected through rigorous competition at the Provincial Championships in Komani last month.
Athletes competed across a wide range of track and field events, including sprints, middle-distance races, relays, long jump, high jump, discus, javelin, and more. Age categories ranged from Sub-Youth (U/16) to Junior (U/20) and included events for Learners with Special Educational Needs (L.S.E.N.), fostering inclusivity and equal opportunity.
This annual championship is a key part of the Department’s mission to break down barriers to participation in school sport, and to build a sustainable, competitive sporting culture across the country. It is implemented in partnership with the Department of Education and forms a cornerstone of the broader School Sport League Programme, as endorsed by the 2011 Sports Indaba.