Rio Olympics hopeful tours Jacobs factory

OLYMPICS gold medal hopeful, Wayde van Niekerk toured the Defy head office in Jacobs as part of their ‘Defyning Memories’ campaign.

The Capetonian track and field sprinter will compete in the 2016 Rio Olympics and is one of SA’s big hopefuls for gold.

The Defy campaign, which highlights ‘homegrown products, supporting homegrown talent’ teamed up with van Niekerk to help gather support for him ahead of the Games.

“Partnering up with Defy was easy for me, not only because they wanted to tell my story but my family’s as well. They are well aware that all my achievements have been a team effort, this resonates in the Defyning Memories campaign, and that makes me proud to be associated with the brand,” said van Niekerk.

The athlete is prepared for the games and has had a consistent year, which has built up his confidence.

World renowned sprinter, Usain Bolt said of van Niekerk, “He has some speed. I must say, he does have some speed,” after the two of them trained together in Jamaica.

He is a world champion in his sport and record-breaker, who believes in family, friendship and being a team player. Ahead of the Olympic Games, van Niekerk will be in training in Europe with encouragement from Defy and thousands of South Africans.

“The partnership with Wayde was easy as we identified the synergies that made this sponsorship so meaningful. Wayde values heritage and family and this aligns very closely with the Defy brand,” said Defy head of marketing, Cherisse Erwee.

“This partnership with Defy is not just helping me as an athlete, but as a person. It allows me to think and dream bigger than today for my family and friends. I also thank the Lord and the people who have supported me. It is all so humbling,” said van Niekerk.