Sharlton hopes to inspire … one step at a time
A DEDICATED marathon runner with a fierce love for the sport has been trodding the trails in and around Greenpoint in Kimberley.
Twenty-five-year-old Sharlton Kramp first felt a spark of passion for the sport of long distance running while watching marathon races on television when he was just nine.
Today, that spark has turned into a love for the sport and he shared his story of resilience, faith, and determination with the DFA recently. He said that it’s his hope that these qualities will inspire others as he continues to pursue his dreams, despite the financial obstacles he faces.
Growing up in an informal settlement, Sharlton faced challenges that could have deterred him from his passion. Yet, in retrospect, he sees these obstacles as stepping stones rather than roadblocks.
He told the DFA that his community has been a consistent source of encouragement, and his parents especially play a central role in his journey. “My community keeps pushing me to do better, and my parents have always supported my dreams,” he shared.
When training gets tough or when he’s faced with setbacks, Sharlton says that he finds strength through prayer and conversations with his mother. “God has given me this talent,” he says with conviction, “and I’m determined to make the most of it.”
A typical week of training for Sharlton includes rigorous physical preparation combined with mental conditioning. To keep his focus sharp, he leans on faith and family, preparing for each race with a balance of prayer and grit.
He says that this commitment has yielded a healthy, happy life that extends beyond the track. “Running has impacted my life in a good way,” he reflects, “keeping me healthy and grounded.”
Beyond his personal goals, Sharlton says that he has ambitions of growing his running club, which he recently started. “It’s been a dream of mine to start my own club, and now it’s becoming a reality. I want my club to grow and to be a place where we encourage each other,” he says.
Through this club, Sharlton hopes to inspire other young athletes, especially those who may feel limited by their circumstances. But it’s still a mission, as one could imagine.
Despite the support he receives from his family, the Greenpoint community, and the Patriotic Alliance, Sharlton still faces significant financial challenges to keep his marathon hopes alive.
To pursue his goals of competing in marathons across the country, he urgently needs funding for travel, race entry fees, and essential gear. His message to potential sponsors is clear: “I want to represent Kimberley, to show that no matter where you come from, your dreams are within reach. All I need is the opportunity.”
Sharlton meanwhile freely shared advice for young athletes from similar backgrounds. His words are simple yet powerful: “Stay positive, train hard, and stay away from drugs. Never give up on your dreams, and always pray.”
There is little doubt that with the right support, Sharlton Kramp could be well on his way to representing not just Greenpoint, not just Kimberley, but the entire Northern Cape on the national stage. But for now, he continues to train tirelessly, holding on to the belief that his talent, along with faith and determination, will open doors.
If you’d like to play a part in Sharlton’s journey to success, feel free to get in touch. He can be reached at 073 161 2379.