Marlie Viljoen defends World University Games 400m title with new lease of life
Image: Reg Caldecott
Marlie Viljoen felt like her world had come crashing down during a recent injury-enforced spell on the sidelines. As she gears up to defend her 400m title at the FISU World University Games in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany, on Monday, she realises it may have been a blessing in disguise.
In March, the Tuks student was in high spirits after setting a personal best of 51.42 seconds in the 400m. She was convinced she was capable of even faster times.
It didn't happen; within days, every step she took on the track was accompanied by pain. It became unbearable after a race in Botswana, so she went to the doctor. A scan revealed she had suffered a stress fracture. For three weeks, she had to get by on crutches.
Crippling blow
'It was as if my world had come crashing down. I was in the best shape of my life, but now I couldn't participate in the South African Championships or the national student meet,' the South African one-lap star said.
'The worst thing was that I had to withdraw from the World Relays after being a member of the 4x400m team that had broken the South African record.
'I almost gave in to total self-pity. Sitting in the stands watching the women's 400m finals at the national championships was agonising. I should have been on the track racing.
'Luckily I realised that feeling sorry for myself wouldn't get me anywhere. I began doing my rehabilitation exercises with dedication. I worked out at the gym, using weights, rowing, the treadmill, cycling, and swimming.
"The one thing I missed was not being able to run. It made me realise that I was truly an athlete. Running is my passion, and if my body allows me, I will continue to run for some time to come.'
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Last weekend in Italy, Viljoen ran the 400m for the first time in three months. She finished fifth, in a time of 53.03.
'The injury could be a blessing in disguise. If I hadn't been injured, I would not have put so much pressure on myself to defend the world student title and run even faster times.
"I am more open-minded now. My only goal is to be the best I can in every race.
'Everyone knows that in the final, anything can happen. Hopefully, I can make South Africans proud again. In the end, all that really matters is knowing that I gave it my all.'
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