On Tuesday, 30 March world and Olympic 400m record holder Wayde van Niekerk was second to none as he rocketed to victory in the men’s 200m race at the ASA Athletix Invitational powered by AVANTI at Ruimsig Athletics Stadium.
The 400m world record holder, who clocked a season’s best, crossed the line in 20.10 (albeit with a +2.1m/s tailwind), holding off a challenge from national 100m record holder Akani Simbine, who took second place in 20.29 in wet and windy conditions.
“This definitely gave me confidence I didn’t have before. It’s one thing training well, but it’s a different thing executing it against such a quality line-up of guys I have the world of respect for,” said Van Niekerk.
Though he was edged out by his close friend and rival, Simbine was also pleased with his result.
“I just ran a terrible bend, but other than that I’m happy with the race,” said Simbine, who had won the 100m race in the first leg at Ruimsig the week before.
Sokwakhana Zazini flaunted his form when winning the men’s 400m hurdles in 50.13, while Wenda Nel held off a fight from Taylon Bieldt to take the women’s 400m hurdles race in 56.16.
Young Renier de Villiers secured victory in the men’s 800m race in 1:46.83, Namibian junior athlete Beatrice Masilingi won the women’s 200m sprint in 22.59 (+3.9), and Charona Bakker of the Netherlands coasted home in 13.46 in the women’s 100m hurdles.
In the field, Werner Visser dominated the men’s discus, and former U/20 World Championships medallist Johann Grobler won the men’s javelin.
“It was another wonderful competition day for our track and field athletes despite the downpour of rain at the tail of the programme.
“We are happiest that we were able to offer several athletes from both South Africa and from our neighbouring countries a chance to either seek qualifications, or improve and test their level of performance,” said Aleck Skhosana, the President of Athletics South Africa (ASA).
