Congratulations to Elroy Gelant for securing his place on Team SA for the Summer Olympic Games in Paris! Waking up to the news of his selection on Wednesday morning ( 5 June) was the most pleasant of surprises for the athlete and the local community alike.

Uno, dos, tres!

This marks Gelant’s third Olympic appearance after Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, now adding Paris 2024 to his remarkable journey. The Potchefstroom resident has consistently demonstrated his exceptional talent and dedication to his sport, and his latest achievement is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.

Elite level endurance

Training with the Potch Track Club under the expert guidance of Coach Jean Verster, Gelant has honed his skills and endurance to an elite level. Earlier this year, he achieved a personal best of 2 hours 8 minutes 56 seconds in the 42.2km marathon in Seville, Spain. This incredible performance was just the beginning of a series of impressive accomplishments.

What a year for Elroy

Following his triumph in Seville, Gelant went on to secure victories in both the national marathon and half-marathon titles in Durban and Gqeberha, respectively. His remarkable year continued with a silver medal finish over the 5,000m at the ASA senior national championship.

You are only as old as you feel

At 37, Gelant continues to defy expectations and prove that age is just a number. His commitment and passion for running have made 2024 a standout year in his career, and the entire Potchefstroom community is rallying behind him as he prepares to represent South Africa on the world stage once again.

The pride of Potchefstroom

Gelant’s journey to the Paris Olympics is not just a personal triumph but a source of immense pride for Potchefstroom. His achievements inspire both young and seasoned athletes, showcasing the power of hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering spirit.

Cheering him on from the sideline

As Gelant gears up for the Summer Olympic Games in Paris, let’s all join in cheering him on and supporting him every step of the way. With his extraordinary track record and determination, there's no doubt that Elroy Gelant will continue to shine and make Potchefstroom and South Africa proud.

Here’s to Elroy Gelant—an embodiment of dedication, resilience, and Olympic spirit. Best of luck in Paris, Elroy! We’ll be rooting for you.