Essen, Germany – July 21, 2025 – Day 5 of the 2025 Rhine-Ruhr World University Games marked the long-awaited start of athletics, with South Africa fielding a strong contingent on Day 1 of 14 athletes across the track and field schedule. It proved to be a promising opening day as several athletes advanced through their first-round heats, field competitors secured qualification spots, and the nation closed the day with two athletes competing in the women’s 10,000m final.
Men’s 400m Hurdles
South Africa’s campaign began with Wernich van Rensburg lining up in Heat 3 of the men’s 400m hurdles. Running from lane 7, Van Rensburg delivered a composed performance to secure third place in 51.35 seconds, booking his place in the next round.
Women’s 400m
The women’s 400m produced double success for Team SA. In Heat 2, Precious Molepo clocked 53.48 seconds to finish third and qualify comfortably. Later in Heat 6, Marlie Viljoen impressed with a commanding run from lane 8, winning her race in the same time of 53.48 to advance.
Men’s 400m
South Africa’s dominance on the one-lap track continued as both entrants won their heats. Lythe Pillay, already a familiar name on the international circuit, cruised to victory in Heat 5 with 46.25 seconds. Tumisang Shezi followed suit in Heat 6, running a sharp 47.08 to claim first place and join Pillay in the next round.
Women’s 100m
In the sprints, South Africa enjoyed a perfect progression rate. Gabriella Marais stormed to victory in Heat 4, recording 11.68 seconds, while Joviale Mbisha secured qualification in Heat 6, crossing the line third with 11.84. Both sprinters advanced to the next round with confidence.
Men’s 100m
South Africa’s men showed equal speed and intent. Bayanda Walaza underlined his class by winning Heat 6 in 10.27 seconds. He was joined by Kyle Zinn, who dominated Heat 8 with a time of 10.33. Both sprinters qualified strongly for the next stage, setting up an exciting sprint campaign for the squad.
Field Events
The field athletes also contributed significantly to South Africa’s strong start.
- In the men’s discus throw qualification (Group B), Aron Alvarez secured his place in the next round with a third-place finish after a best mark of 55.41 metres.
- In the women’s shot put, both South African entrants advanced. Colette Uys produced a strong throw of 16.83 metres to finish second in Group A, while Miné de Klerk matched that result with 16.96 metres for second place in Group B.
Women’s 10,000m Final
The opening day closed with the first athletics medal event, the women’s 10,000m final. South Africa had two representatives in a high-quality field. Nicola Jansen battled well to finish 10th in 32:56.14, while Maria Mailula followed closely in 13th place, crossing in 33:06.34.
Looking Ahead
Day 1 of athletics ended with South Africa boasting 12 qualifiers into the next rounds of competition, including three field athletes safely through to later stages. With such a strong opening, Team SA laid down a marker for what promises to be an exciting athletics programme in Essen and across the Games.
For More South African Sports News: Sport South Africa Home Page
For More South African World University Games News:
South Africa Claim Memorable Win Over Germany in Team Épée Before Falling to Hungary
Day 4 Recap – Semifinal Successes and Relay Efforts for Team SA in the Pool
Day 4 Diving Recap – Heydra Leads the Charge for Team SA in Women’s 3m Springboard
