Anna Botha, the powerhouse coach behind Wayde van Niekerk, was honoured by the IAAF and received the Coaching Achievement Award, Wayde shared his pride online.
Wayde van Niekerk took to social media to express his love and pride for his coach Anna Botha. Anna’s coaching career has spanned over 50 years and the IAAF decided to honour her with the Coaching Achievement Award.
Wayde was unable to attend the award ceremony due to his rehabilitation for an operation he recently underwent. The world record holder was nominated for Athlete of the Year but sadly didn’t win. The sportsman is focusing his energy on recovering so he can get back to the track.
While he was unable to attend the award ceremony, he shared his love and pride for his coach on Twitter. He also expressed his congratulations to the winner of Male Athlete of the Year, Qatar high jumper, Mutaz Barshim.
“Dear Coach. Tannie Ans. No achievement shines brighter then Love and a Good heart. You deserve all the praise and recognition. Although that’s never been or ever will be the motive. You a Legend.” – Wayde van Niekerk
Anna Botha went on stage and was asked questions such as, what it took to coach for over 50 years and what it felt like being a pioneer woman in coaching. Her answers were inspirational!
Tannie Ans believes that love for what you do, a passion and enthusiasm are what contributed to her 50 year career. She also thinks that women in coaching should push to reach their dreams. We are very proud of Tannie Ans and wish to extend our congratulations.
Anna Botha, coach of 400m world champion and world record holder @WaydeDreamer , wins the Coaching Achiement Award at the #AthleticsAwards pic.twitter.com/cyp6fy2zWA
— IAAF (@iaaforg) November 24, 2017
#AthleticsAwards Coach of the Year Ans Botha shares what it takes to have a long and successful career. pic.twitter.com/ivnQUHTe1c
— IAAF (@iaaforg) November 25, 2017
by 