Stadio Athletics. Higher education provider STADIO has hit the ground running with their new Athletics Club. Fronted by world-famous sporting icon, Zola Budd, as coach and mentor, the club not only leads in a new chapter for Zola, but also creates a platform of excellence within the STADIO student community.
Bloemfontein born Zola Budd is best known for her incredible career in athletics. It include breaking several world running records and winning gold medals whilst barefoot. Having started running professionally at the tender age of 17, the now 55-year-old Olympian brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the new STADIO Athletic Club.
As its director and ambassador, Zola will be working closely with STADIO to develop and enhance the fitness and sports programmes offered to its students as well as the public. She will also provide invaluable coaching, and mentoring to both professional and budding runners.
“We feel incredibly privileged to have Zola Budd, one of the best-known sporting personalities in South Africa and also the world, on board as the director and ambassador of our new Athletic Club. Zola’s passion for sports and education aligns perfectly with STADIO’s values and vision. It is to widen access to higher education in Southern Africa.
“We are always looking for ways to enhance support for our students. We also strongly believe that under Zola’s guidance, our new athletics and running club will make a significant impact on athletics and road running across South Africa” says Chris Vorster, CEO of STADIO Higher Education.
Joining Zola in the STADIO Athletics Club, is seasoned trainer Ray de Vries. He will fulfil the role of club chairman. De Vries is also Zola’s manager and friend who has produced 14 Comrades Marathon winners and 86 gold medalists during his illustrious career.
Come Run with Zola
Zola’s new chapter with STADIO includes the STADIO RUN WITH ZOLA 5km mass participation event. Taking place later in the year at the state-of-the-art STADIO Centurion campus, the event promises to be a fun-filled day for all, whilst paying tribute to Zola.
The event is also a chance for participants and spectators to showcase their unity against gender-based violence. It is a cause strongly championed by both Zola and STADIO.
Speaking about the event, Zola Budd said, “I am thrilled to be a part of this exciting new venture with STADIO. I also believe that the new Athletics Club and the STADIO RUN WITH ZOLA event will provide a fantastic platform for athletes of all ages and abilities to come together and enjoy the benefits of fitness and sports. I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together!”
Club registrations are now open for STADIO students and staff, as well as anyone else who would like to join the STADIO running family! For more information and to join go to www.stadio.ac.za
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