South Africa has a strong chance of competing for a medal at the upcoming World Athletics Relays, thanks to the addition of Wayde van Niekerk to their 4x400m relay team. The team also includes Zakithi Nene and Lythe Pillay, both of whom have set impressive personal bests in recent years.
Van Niekerk is widely regarded as one of the world’s fastest sprinters, having set an Olympic record in the 400m in 2016. Pillay recently set a new personal best of 44.31 seconds in the same event, making him the second-fastest South African in the sport behind Van Niekerk. Both athletes have met Olympic qualifying times and are expected to compete at Paris 2024.
The trio forms the core of South Africa’s 4x400m relay team, which aims to continue the country’s success in this event on a global stage. In past championships, South African teams have achieved podium finishes, with former national record holders and other talented athletes contributing to the country’s relay legacy.
Other South African athletes such as Clarence Munyai, Akani Simbine and Wayde van Niekerk will be participating in men’s relay events at the World Relays, hoping to secure their spot at Paris 2024. Overall, South Africa has a solid foundation with experienced athletes and rising talents that gives them hope for success at this year’s World Athletics Relays and potential medal contention at Paris 2024.