ASA IMPRESSED WITH TRACK AND FIELD PERFORMANCES

World record holder in 400m, Wayde van Niekerk with his coach Ans Botha

Athletics South Africa (ASA) President, Aleck Skhosana has expressed his excitement about the performance of Wayde van Niekerk and Luvo Manyonga at the RIO Olympics.

Van Niekerk smashed the 19-year old world record in 400 which was previously held United States of America's (USA), Michael Johnson at the Olympic stadium yesterday.

According to Van Niekerk, the preparations were the reason for the victory.

“I ran blind the whole race, I still don’t know what happened out there but it was just so awesome to be here and inspired by guys like Usain Bolt, Michael Johnson, and tonight guys who I ran against like Kirani James and LaShawn Merritt.

In long Jump, Manyonga snatched the silver medal to anchor the athletics performance.

Speaking shortly after the duo performances, Skhosana said the best is yet to come from both athletes.

"What we have seen here is an outstanding performance that will be on Athletics conversation for many years to come. Wayde proved today that he is in a class of his own," Skhosana said.

He said the Manyonga’s silver medal took them by surprise and has put “the cat among pigeons” as South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) attempts to dominate the IAAF World Championships in London next year.

“As ASA we congratulate him for taking on the big giants in the long jump and come just 1cm short of the gold medal. His attitude dedication and discipline coupled with focus has taken him to where he is today,” Skhosana added.

Manyonga's story is one that can be told forever. In 2010, a 19-year old Manyonga won the gold medal in IAAF Junior World championship. In 2012 Manyonga’s life was nearly damaged when he began using drugs. In March Manyonga was cleared a world-leading and personal best distance of 8.30m, and that alone was enough to secure qualification to the Olympics.

The South African Olympics team is three medal shy of the 10 medal target set by SASCOC President Gideon Sam.

Speaking before the team’s departure in July, Sam said the team sent to the Olympics have every chance of reaching the 10 medal tally of 1920 and 1952 Olympics.

“We have given the squad a task of ensuring that they return with 10 medals at the games. Anything above that would be a huge achievement for the country and the federation,” Sam said.