Jo-Ane van Dyk achieved Team South Africas sixth Olympic medal at Stade de France on Saturday night without much support from official structures back home, relying instead on much-needed help from her parents.
Originally from the Western Cape, Van Dyk had to dig deep to continue competing after finishing her studies in Potchefstroom, where she now lives.
So very difficult, the 26-year-old qualified dietician replied when asked how challenging it had been to push ahead without financial backing. I think especially after I finished with my studies.
I have been supported by my parents because they also believed in me and they were believing in the passion that I have.
It was quite difficult. Its difficult when everybody else is moving on with their lives and earning salaries and Im just here, just trying and still trying, said Van Dyk, who didnt want to quit the sport without giving her best.
