In a thrilling achievement, Haroun Pietersen, 37, from Mitchell’s Plain, has secured the Africa Powerlifting Championship title. Pietersen, a celebrated name in powerlifting circles, won the championship at the 2024 African Men’s Classic Powerlifting Championships, marking another major milestone in his extraordinary career.
This victory adds to Pietersen’s impressive track record, as he already holds four records and has previously set a personal benchmark by breaking his own Commonwealth Powerlifting Championship record. Just two weeks before his recent win, Pietersen had already brought home a gold medal for South Africa from the Commonwealth Championships.
During the African Championships, Pietersen achieved a combined total lift of 792.5 kilograms. Reflecting on the experience, he shared, “Africa Champs was a special one. We had an all-South African battle for the best lifter trophy. What a way to finish off the year.”
A Year of Record-Breaking Success
Pietersen’s rise has been swift and remarkable. Earlier in his career, he aspired only to earn South African colours in the sport. Yet, within the span of just one year, he has represented South Africa at four international competitions, bringing home both silver and gold medals. “It’s been an absolutely phenomenal year,” he said. “The goal was to achieve SA colours, and in my first competition, I not only received colours but advanced to international championships, eventually becoming both a champion and a record holder.”
This achievement is especially meaningful to Pietersen, who often reflects on his journey from Mitchell’s Plain to the heights of continental recognition. “To think that a guy from the Plain is now Africa Champion—it’s a massive feeling,” he said. “My friend Isaac and I were saying, we’re from the bottom of Africa, and now we’re on top of the food chain in this sport. It’s just unbelievable.”
Preparing for the World Games
Adding to the excitement, Pietersen was recently nominated for the World Games in China, often referred to as the “Olympics” of powerlifting. This prestigious event, which will be televised internationally, gives Pietersen a chance to compete against the best powerlifters worldwide. “When I got the news, I literally got goosebumps,” he shared. “It’s surreal to think of how far I’ve come.”
With the World Games on the horizon, Pietersen is already preparing for next year, aiming to achieve even greater feats. His success has also inspired others, and he encourages fellow athletes to “live in drive mode,” channelling both positive and negative energy to fuel their ambitions.
Leaving a Legacy
Pietersen is immensely proud of the legacy he’s building for his family and his community. “What makes me even more proud is that my family’s name is now part of the history of this country, continent, and world as one of the strongest families in powerlifting,” he said. His journey from local competitions to global recognition not only highlights his strength but serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across South Africa.
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