ASA chief Hendrick Mokganyetsi urges athletes to secure Olympic spots at African champs

Currently, 19 athletes have secured their spots, and Mokganyetsi, a retired three-time Olympian in the 400m, is optimistic that this number will increase following the competition in West Africa.

The cutoff date for Olympic qualifiers is June 30. Athletes like Glenrose Xaba (10 000), Precious Mashele (10 000m), Cheswell Johnson (Long Jump), Ryan Mphahlele (1500m), Bradley Nkoana (100m), Viwe Jingqi (100m), and Zinzi Xulu (Triple Jump) are still striving to meet the qualification times.

“As ASA, we are thrilled that several athletes have already qualified, and we anticipate even more will qualify based on world rankings. Those competing in Europe as well as those still striving to qualify, can consider another opportunity in Cameroon. Not all athletes can afford to travel to Europe for qualification, but they can represent South Africa in Cameroon without the travel costs.  We are here to support and encourage all athletes in their quest to qualify for the Olympics. There is still ample time to qualify before the cutoff date at the end of the month,” Mokganyetsi told SABC Sport.  

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The South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) plans to announce two separate groups of athletes that have qualified for the Games later this month. “Those who have secured qualification should concentrate on their preparation, while those still vying for sports should prioritize the upcoming African Championships.  As SASCOC announces more athletes’ confirmations. At this point there’s no need for panic,” Mokganyetsi emphasized.