Young archer ready for action
AIM HIGH: Montao Cupido, of Kraaifontein, targets bullseye AIM HIGH: Montao Cupido, of Kraaifontein, targets bullseye
A young archer from Kraaifontein is taking aim at an international tournament but needs your help to reach his target.
Montao Cupido, 12, is one of only two Western Cape archers who will represent South Africa at the 2018 National Archery in the Schools Programme (NASP) All Nation All-Stars Championship in Canada next year.
But before the young Robin Hood gets there he will have to compete in the 2018 NASP Africa All Stars Championship in Gauteng which is a precursor to the main event.
The Grade 7 learner from Simonsberg Primary School started archery two years ago after a local high school visited his class.
His proud mom, Samantha Steenberg, 32, says Montao came home one day and said he had signed up; since then he has been in love with the sport.
“He really took to it and made sure we got him his own bow. You have to pay an annual fee and he plays matches every month,” she says.
Several months ago, Montao competed in the annual trials and received his Western Cape and South African colours.
“I am very excited about going to compete in Canada. I also enjoy hockey and swimming, but I am focusing on archery because I like it a lot,” says the young boy.
Mom Samantha says his family is now working hard to raise the R80 000 in funds he will need for both trips.
ON TARGET: The results after Montao took aim speak for themselves
“But it is really hard to raise that kind of money. We are a family of five and raising three children and do not have the extra cash, but we want to support his dream because he is very dedicated,” she says.
“We are very proud of what he has achieved in this little time. So I have started raffles and will host a series of events like karaokes. In addition to the airfare and accommodation, there is stuff like special T-shirts and entry fees we need to pay.”
The family is appealing to sponsors to help their son’s dream come true.If you would like to assist, call Samantha on 082 698 5553.