Mine de Klerk reflects on her Olympic Games debut in Paris

She shared with SABC Sport that competing at a packed Stade de France in her Olympic debut was an experience she would cherish forever. 

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The American-based athlete had the chance to meet her idols and can now return home with satisfaction of knowing she is officially an Olympian.  Although her throw didn’t meet her expectations, she remains ecstatic about simply being at the Games.

''No, it did not go as planned at all, but I am still happy to represent South Africa at his high level. I'm so proud of myself - the emotions are high, I mean competing in a stadium like this, wow. My first and second throw were not great but I am still proud of myself,'' said De Klerk.

De Klerk mentioned that she learned a valuable lesson at her first Olympics. Her goal was to gain experience at these Games and be more competitive at the next Olympics in the US in 2028.

''Just be calm and don't stress about it. Just relax and have fun. I think I was more excited than nervous, just competing with role models, my idols. Competing in a stadium like this, I am still pinching myself, but it is a reality now,'' added De Klerk.

De Klerk plans to take a break from the sport for a while and return to South Africa to spend time with her family before heading back to the US, where she is based.

On Women’s Day, De Klerk observes that women are increasingly catching up with men, growing in confidence and self-belief. She is pleased to see that they are receiving equal treatment to men at the Olympic Games.