Sprint heroes to set our pulses racing

AKANI Simbine versus Wayde van Niekerk. Over 100 metres at the speed of light. That is what athletics fans can look forward to at this weekend’s SA national championships in Potchefstroom.

In fact, make that ALL sport fans, not just athletics devotees. Even to those who have only a passing interest in athletics, the 100m men’s sprint has always been one of the great events in sport. That is why the world holds its breath every time Usain Bolt crouches on the track. But back to our own heroes, Akani and Wayde. Simbine made history when he became the first SA man to break the 10-second and 20-second barrier in the 100m and the 200m on the same day.

Akani is in tremendous form, and although the 100m is not golden Wayde’s speciality, the showdown between the two of them over the shorter distance has added a large dose of spice to the event. Plus there are three exciting youngsters – Clarence Munyai, Thando Roto and Gift Leotlela – who might just surprise and run off with the medals.

Speaking of spice, there are lots of other dishes set to be served steaming hot in Potch.

Luvo Manyonga, for example, will be pushing hard to improve on his personal best in the long jump. Manyonga is one of our brightest stars, and what a fabulous achievement it would be if he could be crowned world record holder in the long jump.

Of course, Caster Semenya will make all our hearts beat faster when she lines up in the 400m and 800m double. Ditto when Wayde faces the starter’s gun in the 200m. Anaso Jobodwana (200m) and Sunette Viljoen (javelin) are virtually certain to be high up on the honours board. It should be a wonderful two days of competition. Of course, at the back of the minds of all our athletes will be the world championships to be held in London in August.

But to win one or more national titles (and Viljoen has 11!) is something every athlete will cherish. So we wish all the competitors, in track and field, the very best of luck.