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Sinesipho Dambile skips his father’s funeral to chase a 200m title and world record at the national championships.
Former South African 200m champion Sinesipho Dambile has made the heart-wrenching decision to forgo attending his father’s funeral on Saturday, opting instead to compete in the 200m final at the National Athletics Championships in Potchefstroom.
The 23-year-old sprinter, who returned to the track after a lengthy injury layoff, is determined to reclaim the crown he first won as a junior in 2022.
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Competing at Puk McArthur Stadium, Dambile clocked a solid 20.67 seconds in his heat on Friday, earning him a place in the final and a chance to etch his name into the history books once more.
“I came here because I want to win the national with my whole heart and tomorrow is my father’s funeral. He passed away a few days ago. The sad part is that I won’t be there and winning the 200m final on Saturday will mean everything to me,” Dambile said in an emotional interview with SABC Sport.
His father, who had been battling a long illness, passed away earlier this week and will be laid to rest in King Williams Town in the Eastern Cape.
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Despite the personal tragedy, Dambile, after consulting with his family and coaches, made the courageous decision to stay focused on his championship ambitions.
The 2024 Olympian’s voice trembled with emotion as he shared his reasons for running this weekend, describing the deep connection he had with his father and the motivation his memory provides.
“He was in hospital, and he passed away before we could come to the national championships. I am emotional and feel like crying even now. If he were alive, he would have wanted me to go for the title, and I am doing what he wanted me to do as a young man. If I win this title I will dedicate it to him.”
Coached by African Coach of the Year Thabo Matebedi, Dambile trains alongside sprinting stars like national 100m champion Gift Leotlela and Olympic silver medallist Bayanda Walaza.
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The tight-knit training group has provided Dambile with strength and emotional support during this difficult time.
He also shared that Matebedi, who had a close relationship with his late father, has given him the space to grieve privately, respecting his decision to stay silent on the matter while channeling his emotions into performance.
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