Hammanskraal is celebrating a major continental sporting achievement after two of its athletes helped South Africa secure an impressive 23 medals at the 2026 African Inline Speed Skating Championships in Cairo, Egypt.
The championships, held from 1 to 5 May 2026, saw Team South Africa claim seven gold, seven silver and nine bronze medals against some of Africa’s strongest competitors.
Among the standout performers were 17-year-old Tisetso Mohube and senior skater Omphemetse Ramoshaba, both from Hammanskraal. Mohube competed in the Junior Men’s category, earning nine medals, including gold in the 5,000 m and 10,000 m track events. Ramoshaba delivered an equally commanding performance in the Senior Men’s division, securing ten medals, including gold in the 5,000 m track, 1-lap road and 10,000 m road races.
Team manager Mr Lucky Baloyi, also from Hammanskraal, formed part of the leadership that guided the national squad through the five-day competition.
In a statement issued on 18 May, the City of Tshwane commended the national team’s historic performance and highlighted the contribution of the Hammanskraal athletes. MMC for Community and Social Development Services Cllr Palesa Modise said the results demonstrate the depth of talent within local communities and reaffirm the importance of investing in grassroots sport development.
Central to the athletes’ development is the roller sport facility at the Mandela Sport Complex in Hammanskraal, recognised as South Africa’s only specialised speed skating and artistic rink. The facility has become a key training ground for competitive skaters and a symbol of opportunity for local youth.
The City also acknowledged support from Airlink through the Economic Development Grant, as well as the roles of Roller Sport South Africa President Wendy Gila, coaches, parents, and other stakeholders.
Back home, the athletes’ achievements have sparked an outpouring of celebration and pride.
Mpho Makhoba of the Hammanskraal Tennis Club also shared a message of congratulations, praising the “skating kids” for their performance and encouraging the community to celebrate their continental success.
Other residents echoed the sentiment with messages of congratulations and applause, reflecting a strong sense of local pride in the athletes’ achievements.
The outpouring of support highlights the significance of the victory not only for the athletes and their families, but for Hammanskraal as a whole, a community increasingly recognised for producing national and continental sporting talent.
As South Africa’s stature in roller sport continues to grow, Hammanskraal’s contribution to the historic medal haul in Cairo stands as a reminder of what can be achieved when local talent is nurtured and supported.
