Laser Run is a fast-paced, high-precision discipline combining intense cross-country running with laser pistol marksmanship. It demands exceptional composure under physical stress; split-second decisions make all the difference.
For 12-year-old LP Botha, a young athlete from LHP, Laser Run is a lifelong dream that has already taken him to global heights. After months of grueling training, LP earned official selection to represent South Africa at the Laser Run World Championship in Portugal.
This marks LP’s second consecutive World Championship appearance. At his debut international championship in 2025, LP showcased his world-class talent by bringing home two gold medals in the team competition. Now, he is preparing to wear the Green and Gold once again and fly the South African flag high on the world stage.
The Cost of Representing Your Country
Unlike major commercial sports, specialised disciplines like Laser Run often don’t receive state or institutional travel funding for junior athletes. In these sports, families cover the full cost of flights, accommodation, competition gear, visas, and registration fees. Because junior athletes require parental supervision on international tours, expenses add up quickly:
- Flights: R15,000
- Accommodation, Food & Local Transport: R10,000
- Entry Fees, Kit & Visa: R5,000
- Total Goal: R30,000
👉🏼 Read more about how breaking down specific, transparent costs helps donors understand exactly how their contributions directly enable a young athlete’s success.
From Preparation to Progress
Thanks to early support from friends, family, and local sports enthusiasts, LP’s campaign hit the ground running. In a series of exciting updates posted to the campaign page, his father Anton confirmed that official entry and registration fees were paid, the official championship certificate was received, and weekend club training sessions were well underway.
Similar to other inspiring South African youth athletes aiming for global competition, LP’s journey highlights the dedication required behind every medal, from early morning shooting practice to weekend endurance runs.
With his tournament entry locked in, every remaining rand raised goes directly toward getting LP to Portugal, keeping his focus where it belongs: on the finish line.
“Elke donasie, groot of klein, help om hom daar te kry en om die SA vlag hoog te hou. Dankie dat jy ‘n ‘Buddy’ is en in ons seun se droom belê.” — Anton Botha
Help LP Fly the SA Flag
LP will be competing in Portugal against top international athletes. You can help ensure financial barriers don’t stand between a young South African champion and world-stage glory.
- Support LP’s flight and travel expenses by contributing on LP’s BackaBuddy Campaign Page.
- Share LP’s campaign with your running clubs, sports networks, and WhatsApp groups to help spread the word!
Are you raising funds for a young athlete, sports tour, or academy? Learn how to crowdfund for youth sports on BackaBuddy or explore more inspiring athlete journeys on The Giving Lab.
