Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Nope. It’s Francois Hartzenberg. Gliding across the ice in his favourite superhero costume, beaming the biggest smile at everyone in sight.
Francois Hartzenberg has become a true ambassador for special needs athletes in South African figure skating. A student at Club 21 (a special education school in Centurion), this 18-year-old with Down Syndrome first stepped onto the ice a few years ago when his school organised monthly skating sessions for all the students.
From the very first glide, he was basically hooked. He immediately fell in love with the sport, as something about it just felt so natural. And although he’s naturally quite shy, the moment he steps onto the ice, it’s like something magical happens. Confidence replaces hesitation, and he pushes himself further and further with each skate.
From the very beginning, he stood out with his enthusiasm and deep love for the sport. And so it wasn’t long before he wanted more than just a once-a-month session. Now, he skates every week at The Grove Mall and has been training consistently for the past three years.
Under the guidance of Konrad Giering, head coach at Evolution on Ice, Francois has grown into a passionate and determined skater who absolutely thrives on the ice.
‘Francois has taken skating to heart,’ says Konrad. ‘He started with Club 21 sessions but soon took extra classes, eager to improve. He has already competed in three programmes on provincial level and hopes to progress to interprovincial and national competitions. If he qualifies, he will be the first South African skater in his category to compete at nationals. His determination is truly remarkable.’
What makes Francois’ journey even more special is the sheer joy he finds in skating. ‘He loves the feeling of being free on the ice. And when he performs his routines during competitions, he lights up. He absolutely loves skating with me during these moments. That’s when he truly feels free.’
But it’s not just his skill that makes Francois stand out. It’s the sheer joy he brings to the rink. Waving at the crowd. Handing out fist bumps. And beaming at the cheers from the stands.
‘The roar of the audience fuels his excitement, and he revels in the applause. He loves performing, and when the crowd matched his excitement, it amps him up even more. He thrives on people cheering for him and with him. You can see the joy radiate from him.’
Ask Francois about the tricks he’s mastered, and he’ll tell you – with great pride – that he can skate backwards and balance on one leg. ‘I don’t fall much,’ he brags with a cheeky grin. ‘I’m just too good!’ And his favourite moment on the ice has to be the day he stepped onto the podium to receive a medal … something he credits entirely to his coach, who he absolutely adores.
When he’s not skating, Francois is a full-fledged superhero fan. Spiderman, Hulk, and Thor are his top picks, which explains why his go-to skating outfits are often inspired by them, too. In fact, it has become his trademark. And if he could have any superpower, it would definitely be Thor’s powers. Honestly, it checks out … he’s already got the strength, determination, and larger-than-life presence!
Fittingly, one of his favourite movies is Cool Runnings. A film about resilience, overcoming obstacles, and chasing dreams. Much like the characters in the film, Francois is carving his own path, proving that limitations are just challenges waiting to be conquered.
He’s also a total sports fanatic? When he’s not on the ice, he’s most probably pushing the limits elsewhere. Earning his Gauteng colours in both athletics (1500m walk) and swimming. His favourite get-up-and-go songs are Amazing Grace and Any dream will do … because nothing gets him pumped quite like a bit of music with meaning.
His dream goes beyond personal achievements. He hopes to one day help establish a dedicated disabled skating division at the South African Figure Skating Association Nationals, paving the way for future skaters with special needs to compete and shine on a national stage.
Through his love for figure skating, Francois is not only chasing his dreams but also inspiring a movement. One thing’s for sure … through his passion, the power of perseverance and the unwavering support of those who believe in him, anything is possible. You just have to believe in yourself.
