South Africa will have a strong presence at the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China, from March 21 to 23. The team includes Olympic finalists Akani Simbine and Prudence Sekgodiso, who will lead the nation’s medal hopes.
Meet team South Africa
Akani Simbine (Men’s 60m Sprint)
One of South Africa’s most accomplished sprinters, Akani Simbine, will compete in the men’s 60m, where he is currently ranked No. 2 in the world and the highest-ranked entrant at the championships. His personal best of 6.53 seconds makes him one of the favourites for a medal.
At 31 years old, Simbine brings experience and consistency, but in the highly competitive 60m sprint, rankings are not always a reliable predictor of results.
Prudence Sekgodiso (Women’s 800m)
South Africa’s middle-distance star, Prudence Sekgodiso, enters the 800m event ranked No. 4 in the world. She has been in outstanding pre-season form and will be among the favourites in Nanjing. However, she is expected to face a strong challenge from Ethiopia’s Tsige Duguma, who will likely be the athlete to beat in the event.
Cheswill Johnson (Men’s Long Jump)
In the field events, Cheswill Johnson will compete in the men’s long jump, he has been producing consistent performances and will look to deliver his best jump in Nanjing
Chris van Niekerk (Men’s Shot Put)
Chris van Niekerk will represent South Africa in the shot put. Known for his powerful throws and steady progression, he will aim to improve his personal best and challenge for a strong finish in the competition.
Marione Fourie withdraws from the national team
Hurdles specialist Marione Fourie, who was initially part of the team, has withdrawn from the championships. Athletics South Africa (ASA) cited personal reasons for her withdrawal. Fourie has decided to focus on local competitions. She will compete at the ASA Grand Prix in Johannesburg, where she aims to continue her strong early-season form.
Indoor athletics has not traditionally been a major focus for South African athletes, but recent success and increased participation signal a growing interest. Athletics South Africa (ASA) hopes that the team’s performance in Nanjing will encourage more athletes to compete in indoor events, strengthening the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.
The World Athletics Indoor Championships will feature over 500 athletes from approximately 120 countries competing in 26 events. With Simbine and Sekgodiso leading the charge, South Africa will be looking to make an impact at the championships.
IOL Sport
