The 2021 Cape Town Sports Awards, held last week, were very special for Figure Skating, in particular Western Province and Matthew Samuels.
Matthew, having had a great season so far, clinched the runner-up spot for Sportsman of the year. This season, Matthew has set many new personal bests with his crowning achievement having qualified for the highly prestigious ISU Four Continents Championships, set to take place in Estonia in January 2022. Having just returned from a long training spell in Italy, the award has come at a perfect time to highlight his successes and to cap off a successful 2021.
Matthew will not be taking any serious breaks as he prepares to represent South Africa at Four Continents, the first SA skater for some time to do so. With momentum on his side, we are confident he will continue his good form and even reach new heights at the event. To illustrate what a high level this event will be, the reigning champion is none other than 2 time Olympic Gold medalist, Yuzuru Hanyu (JPN).
To be recognised for figure skating by the Cape Town Sport Council in a country where sporting awards and support is usually dominated by the likes of Rugby, Cricket, Soccer etc. is a massive achievement.
We are immensely proud of Matthew and it is well deserved.