Akani Simbine (L) and Henricho Bruintjies, who's next to him, impressed on Wednesday night as relay teammates. But it won't be that friendly in Potchefstroom next month. Photo: Roger Sedres/Gallo Images.
Akani Simbine, who is currently the fastest man in the world this year, has already stirred interest for next month’s national championships in Potchefstroom.
The 23-year-old sprinter, who clocked 9.93 earlier this month at a meet in Pretoria, took to Twitter to engage in some banter with his nearest rivals.
First, he asked Henricho Bruintjies if he’s ready to defend his national 100m title.
Simbine lost out to Bruintjies last year in Stellenbosch but clearly feels confident of gaining revenge.
But his rival, who hails from Paarl, took leaf out of Basketball legend Michael Jordan’s book.
Jordan won three consecutive titles for 1996-1998 with the Chicago Bulls, leading to Bruintjies’ reference.
There’s another potential stumbling block for Simbine though: Olympic hero Wayde van Niekerk will be competing for national 100m title.
Not that he’s too worried about having to race the 400m world record holder.
It all promises to be a fascinating meet next month.
For more sport your way, follow The Citizen on Facebook and Twitter.
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.
