Louw began her javelin journey at the age of 16. Initially, she preferred running the 400m. However, her school headmaster noticed her strong arm while throwing a cricket ball and suggested she try javelin.

Injuries and Challenges

After the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Louw sustained a lower back injury that affected her for three years. This injury caused her to miss the 2017 World Championships in London. In early 2012, she also missed four weeks of training due to another back injury.

Sporting Philosophy

Louw’s sporting philosophy is simple: "I like to get out what I put in. All the heartaches, disappointments, failures, and victories you have on yourself. That's what I enjoy with the javelin, stand there and throw to the best of my abilities."

Cricket Career

Before focusing on javelin, Louw played cricket for South Africa. She competed in one test match and 27 one-day internationals. At age 17, she became the youngest female cricketer to represent South Africa internationally.

Family Background

Louw comes from a family of athletes. Her father Danie competed in the 400m hurdles, her mother Sunette played netball, and her brother Drikes played indoor cricket at the provincial level. Her partner LiMari Louw is a TV presenter in South Africa.

Ambitions

Louw aims to win gold at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and throw 70m. She also plans to return to cricket after retiring from athletics. "Once I have retired as an athlete, the aim will be to try and play for the South African women's cricket team again," she said.

Coaching Career

Louw coaches at Bloemhof High School in Stellenbosch and has started an athletics academy for children aged six to ten. She is passionate about making a difference in kids' lives and visits impoverished communities in the Western Cape once a week.

Experienced Competitor

Louw does not believe age should be a factor in competition. "I always get mentioned in newspapers as the 35-year-old javelin thrower or whatever, the veteran. If you are good, you are good; healthy, strong—it doesn't matter how old or young you are."

Louw's journey from cricket to javelin showcases her versatility and dedication to sports. Her plans for the future reflect her enduring passion for both athletics and cricket.