'They will help my dreams come true' - Top race walker Swanepoel joins Boxer AC

When ace race-walker Marissa Swanepoel first linked-up with Boxer AC last year, she was immediately struck by the warmth and sense of belonging shown by the club's hierarchy, an environment that made her feel at home from day one. Attracted by a club which boasts top runners like Kabelo Mulaudzi, Glenrose Xaba, and Elroy Gelant as well as exciting young prospects Xanthe Taljaard and Emil Els, the North West University (NWU) alumnus feels certain that her decision to don the red will help her to grow as an athlete.

"From my first contact with the club in 2025, I felt welcome. Now that I'm officially part of the club, the interest in me as an athlete is heartwarming and I can only pledge my loyalty to Boxer," she said after being officially unveiled as Boxer AC's latest signing by manager Rhyn Swanepoel earlier this week.

Swanepoel competes for the first time in Boxer AC course at the AGN first track and league meeting. Photo Credit: Boxer AC.

Swanepoel walked her first race in Boxer colours at the Athletics Gauteng North (AGN) track and field league on on January 17, clocking a dominant 14:20.22 for first place in the senior women's 3000m walk, as she won by almost three minutes. The 24-year-old walker, who recently completed her BEd Honours degree from NWU, believes Boxer’s support structures will help elevate her race-walking career.

"The key is to get competition opportunities locally and abroad. I will earn those opportunities through my performances. I believe Boxer will help my future dreams come true."

Swanepoel crosses the line to win the 1 Mile race walk at last year's Thembisa Mile. Photo Credit: Tshwantsho Media

With the Race Walk championships in Pretoria next month serving as trials for the World Athletics Race Walking Team Championships in Brazil in April, Swanepoel who represented South Africa at the 2018 Youth Olympics, 2021 World U20 Championships and the 2024 World Athletics Race Walking Team Championships, will have her work cut out as she attempts to make the cut for the national team. 

"There will be various distances on the day. I’m preparing for the half-marathon. Preparations are going well. Coach Carl Meyer and I have worked hard over the past eight months on my technique and efficiency. I am working towards a sub 1:45. Hopefully, the weather will be kind on race day to all participants," Swanepoel said.

As the national 20km national champion and University Sports South Africa (USSA) 10 000m title holder, the 24-year-old knows that only a top performance will secure her place on the world stage. “Brazil will be a stepping stone for my #LA2028 aspirations. I hope to achieve a top 50 world ranking this year.”