By: Zimaseka Daka
The Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture with Buffalo City Metro Municipality commemorated JD Van der Walt by handing over swimming equipment to the Piranhas Swimming club at Parkside today.
JD Van der Walt was a swimming legend that was born in East London, who established swimming clubs in Parkside and Mdantsane.
Speaking at the event, MEC Bulelwa Tunyiswa encouraged children from the swimming club to work hard and keep JD’s legacy going, she also urged the parents to assist their children to realize their dreams.
Tunyiswa added that the swimmers have a responsibility to work hard and represent the Eastern Cape and South Africa internationally.
Ward 6 Councillor Peter Kiki said, he is honoured to be part of the handover as it will put the ward on the map. Kiki added that the club did not have enough equipment and the new swimming kit will benefit the Piranhas.
Samantha Van der Walt, wife to the late JD said, this day proves that with hard work, there are results. “It’s true testimony that if you put enough effort into something, you will be rewarded in the end.”