Photo of Thekgo Raseala

Caster Semenya reflects on ‘Tropika Island of Treasure’ experience after leaving first

1d By Thekgo Raseala

Tropika Island of Treasure‘s Team Orange, consisting of Olympic gold medalist Caster Semenya and her partner, Thando Zwane, was the first team eliminated in last night’s episode, saying goodbye to the gorgeous La Réunion Island.

Caster reflected on the experience, bringing her together with other notable South African celebrities and competitors.

ALSO SEE: Celebrity teams revealed as ‘Tropika Island Of Treasure’ Season 12 gets underway

The stakes were higher than ever

Last night’s episode was the first elimination round of Season 12. Just as fans started to get comfortable with their favourite teams, the element of elimination was introduced, and many who supported Team Orange were in for a devastating episode.

The team had a promising start and seemed to be in contention, until everything came crashing down. The disc challenge was the ultimate Achilles heel. Despite a few attempts to get back on track, more fumbles and pressure led to the team being the last one to finish the challenge.

ALSO SEE: Zanele Potelwa returns as ‘Tropika Island of Treasure’ host with star-studded cast

“I respect the game”

Being eliminated so early in the competition for such an elite athlete came as a shock to many. However, Caster shares that though unexpected, one must still respect the game.

“I compete to win, always, but I also respect the game. I was disappointed, yes, but more grateful that I got to be there at all,” the gold medalist expressed. 

“In sport I have learnt: you do not always control the result; you control your response.”

Picture: Supplied

Teamwork makes the dream work

Caster shares that she clicked with her teammate Thando fairly quickly, acknowledging how driven, creative, and positive a soul he was, further citing that mutual respect helped them work together.

“We listened to each other. I brought the competitive spirit; he brought creative thinking and good energy,” the athlete noted. 

“We became a real team.” 

Picture: Supplied

ALSO SEE: Lalela Mswane shares game plan ahead of ‘Tropika Island of Treasure’

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