The highly anticipated World Athletics Championships in Budapest are just 42 days away, and South African and African athletes have been showcasing remarkable performances in international track and field events across Europe. As the countdown continues, let’s take a look back at some standout performances by South African athletes in recent months, setting the stage for an exciting competition.
Akani Simbine Dominates the 100m:
South African sprinter Akani Simbine has had a remarkable week of achievements. At the World Continental Tour Golden Spike meet in Ostrava, Simbine showcased his speed and outperformed Olympic 200m gold medalist Andre de Grasse, winning the 100m event in an impressive time of 9.98 seconds. Simbine continued his winning streak, conquering the rainy conditions at the Diamond League meet in Stockholm, finishing first in the 100m with a time of 10.03 seconds. These victories serve as a significant confidence boost for Simbine, a two-time Olympic finalist.
Luxolo Adams and Sinesipho Dambile Shine in the 200m:
Luxolo Adams demonstrated a return to form by securing a comfortable win in the 200m at the Ostrava meet, clocking a season’s best time of 20.22 seconds. His compatriot, Sinesipho Dambile, also impressed by finishing second with a time of 20.58 seconds. Adams’ performance reflects glimpses of his success in reaching the 200m final at the previous World Championships.
Record-Breaking Performances in 100m Hurdles and Hammer Throw:
South African women are making their mark in athletics, with Marione Fourie and Taylon Bieldt shattering the national record in the 100m hurdles. Fourie set a new South African record of 12.55 seconds in Switzerland, just four weeks after Bieldt had broken the record with a time of 12.76 seconds. This exciting duel between Fourie and Bieldt serves as inspiration for young South African athletes, proving that they can compete against the world’s best. Additionally, Leandri Geel achieved two national records in the women’s hammer throw within 11 days, throwing distances of 65.18 meters and 66.11 meters.
Wayde van Niekerk’s Remarkable Comeback:
World record holder Wayde van Niekerk continues his impressive comeback journey, effortlessly securing victory in the men’s 400m race at the World Athletics Diamond League meeting in Oslo, Norway. Van Niekerk’s presence and success serve as a testament to his resilience and determination.
South African Team Announcements:
Athletics South Africa recently announced a preliminary team of 58 athletes for the upcoming World Athletics Championships. This team comprises athletes who have automatically qualified based on entry standards and includes 10 athletes in individual events, along with the SA men’s 4x100m relay team. Notable names among the nine men who have already secured their places are Akani Simbine, Wayde van Niekerk, and Ryan Mphahlele. Zeney van der Walt, the African Championships gold medalist, is the only South African woman who has qualified on time thus far, securing her place in the 400m hurdles event.
Preparation Squad and Qualification Deadline:
An additional 48 athletes have been included in the ASA Preparation Squad, having provisionally qualified with a wild card or by ranking. This squad comprises 38 athletes in individual events and 10 sprinters added to the full-strength relay squads for the men’s 4x100m event and the men’s and women’s 4x400m events. The marathon and 35km race walk qualification deadline for the World Athletics Championships was May 30, 2023, while the qualification window for all other events closes on July 30, 2023.
Conclusion:
As South Africa eagerly anticipates the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, the country’s athletes have already showcased remarkable performances, setting the stage for an exciting competition. Akani Simbine’s sprinting dominance, Luxolo Adams’ resurgence, record-breaking achievements in hurdles and hammer throw, Wayde van Niekerk’s impressive comeback, and the announcement of the South African teams highlight the country’s strong presence in the world of athletics. South African athletes are poised to make their mark on the global stage, representing their nation with pride and determination.
