Team South Africa had an exhilarating day at the World Athletics Relays Championships held in China on Saturday, achieving a remarkable feat as all four relay teams advanced to the finals scheduled for Sunday. More significantly, each team secured qualification for the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo later this year, marking a triumphant day for South African athletics.
Across four high-stakes events—the men’s 4x100m, men’s and women’s 4x400m, and the mixed 4x400m—a total of 19 South African athletes showcased their skills and determination, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting championship run.
Mixed 4x400m team sets the tone
The mixed 4x400m team, comprising Zeney van der Walt, Shirley Nekhubui, Leendert Koekemoer, and Tumisang Shezi, kicked off South Africa’s campaign by finishing second in their heat behind Great Britain. Their time of 3:13.79 earned them a place in the final while also confirming their slot in Tokyo. Although they qualified as the eighth-fastest team, the quartet will be aiming for a strong performance to contend for a medal as they prepare for the challenge ahead.
Men’s 4x100m squad makes a statement
Following this promising start, the men’s 4x100m team—featuring captain Akani Simbine, Bayanda Walaz, Bradley Nkoana, and Sinesipho Dambile—took to the track with confidence. The squad delivered an outstanding performance, storming to victory in their heat with a blistering time of 37.84 seconds. This impressive triumph not only secured their place in Sunday’s final but also guaranteed their qualification for the World Championships, highlighting the depth of talent within the team.
Women’s 4x400m team sets a new record
The momentum did not wane as the women’s 4x400m team, featuring an outstanding lineup of Van Niekerk, Van der Walt, Nekhubui, and Molepo, etched their names in the record books by winning their heat in a stunning new national record of 3:28.01. Their performance secured them the seventh-fastest qualification time for the final, alongside confirming their ticket to Tokyo, a feat that underscores the promise and potential of South African athletics.
Men’s 4x400m team caps off a perfect day
Concluding the day’s events, the men’s 4x400m team—composed of Zakithi Nene, Udeme Okon, Lythe Pillay, and Mthi Mthimkhulu—delivered a commanding performance, crossing the finish line first in exactly three minutes. Their remarkable victory not only exemplifies the prowess of this formidable team but also ensured South Africa’s flawless qualification record, with all teams advancing to both Sunday’s finals and the World Championships.
This stellar showing at the World Athletics Relays Championships signifies a high point for South Africa’s track and field athletes, serving as a solid foundation as they prepare to vie for glory in Tokyo. With all four teams now on the cusp of international competition, the stage is set for South African athletics to take centre stage in the coming months.