U.S.-BASED WILDSCHUTT BAGS MAIDEN SA NATIONAL 10 000M TITLE

Nadeel Wildschutt proudly displayed the family’s athletics prowess as he clinched his maiden 10 000 title at the Athletics South Africa Senior Track and Field Championships in Pietermaritzburg.

Following in the footsteps of his record-breaking brother, Adriaan — who holds national records across the 10 000m, 5000m, and 3000m events — Nadeem’s victory showcased their shared talent.

Crossing the finish line in an impressive 29:19,05 seconds, representing Boland, Nadeel paid homage to his brother’s exceptional skills.

Puseletso Mofokeng from Athletics Central North West secured second place with a time of 29:19,00, while Sibusiso Khubeka of host province Kwa-Zulu Natal Athletics claimed third position in a thrilling race, finishing in 29:43,02.

“It is remarkable what he has achieved even though he is younger than me, but I’m inspired by him — maybe in the coming months I can improve and also perform at an international level,” said Adriaan.

After clinching a gold medal in the national championships, Wildschutt is setting his sights on the 5 000m race.

Furthermore, his goal within the next two years is to enhance his performance in both the 5 000m and 10 000m races.

Currently, his main focus does not lie in qualifying for the Olympics, unlike his younger brother who has already secured a spot in the 10 000 event for the upcoming Paris Games.

“I have one more scheduled 5 000m, which will be the international continental tour in the Western Cape. After that I will see what I can do, maybe I will be back for cross-country training next season,” said Wildschutt.

Wildschutt, like his brother, resides in the United State and competed for South Africa at the recent World Cross Country Championships in Belgrade, Serbia.

Despite his versatility, he particularly favours the 10 000m distance. However, his ambitions to achieve a faster time were hindered by unfavourable windy conditions during his race in KZN.

Nadeem and Adriaan are the only athletes in the family, while the others are dedicated to pursuing their education.