From R15 000 shortfall to GOLD: Sage and team triumph at Dance Wave Nationals - IOL

1008717936__20260812__0 Sage Jane, 8, with her trophy and medal.

Just weeks ago, eight-year-old ballet dancer Sage Faith Jane’s dream of competing on a national stage hung in the balance because her family could not afford the trip.

This past weekend, she returned to Mitchell’s Plain a national gold medal winner.

Sage and her fellow young dancers from First Step Dance School in Westridge took first place and won gold at the Dance Wave National Championships in Roodepoort, Johannesburg, on September 19.

The victory marked an emotional end to a journey that nearly did not happen for the Grade 2 Westville Primary School learner.

Ahead of the championships, Sage’s mother, Anastasia Jane, needed about R15 000 to cover the cost of travelling to Johannesburg with her daughter, accommodation, transport to the theatre, costumes and registration fees.

At one point, Anastasia had informed Sage’s dance teacher that they simply would not be able to go.

But after seeing how much qualifying for nationals meant to her daughter, she decided she had to try everything she could. She held raffles, sold savouries, organised fundraisers and appealed to the public for help.

Several people stepped forward with donations and sponsorship, helping Sage make the journey to Johannesburg and take her place alongside her teammates on the national stage.

Those who assisted have asked to remain anonymous, with Anastasia saying she remains in contact with the people who helped turn what had seemed like an impossible trip into reality.

After the competition, she shared the news the family had hoped and worked so hard for.

“Sage’s group came first place and won gold at the Dance Wave Nationals,” Anastasia said.

“We are so incredibly proud of Sage and her whole group. What a beautiful achievement and such a special way to close off this chapter of the Dance Wave competition.”

For Sage, the medal is the culmination of more than two years of dancing, and long evenings juggling schoolwork and ballet practice.

Before nationals, Sage told the Cape Argus there were evenings when she was tired after school, homework and practice that she wanted to give up. Her parents kept encouraging her, reminding her that the things she loved would sometimes require sacrifice.

For Anastasia, the achievement is particularly special considering how close her daughter came to missing the competition.

She thanked the teachers, Dance Wave organisers and everyone who supported the children throughout their journey.

Although the gold medal brings Sage’s Dance Wave journey to a glittering end, it is by no means the end of the little dancer’s ambitions.

“This is definitely not the end of Sage’s competition journey,” Anastasia said.

“She still has other competitions with other companies ahead, and we can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next.”