Record breaker Adriaan Wildshutt keeps shining

At only 25 years old, the United States-based runner has obliterated records in the 10,000m, 5000m, and 3000m events in a single year. Wildshutt smashed Hendrick Ramaala's 1999 record in the 10 000m by six seconds in May, with a time of 27:23:10, then breaking Elroy Galant's 2016 best in the 5000 by two seconds in July. 

“I was aware of the records, yet I never personally knew the athletes behind them. However, I greatly admire them for laying the groundwork that has enabled me to achieve fast times in my own career,” he shared with SABC Sport, from the USA

“My ambition is to become one of the finest athletes in South Africa and surpass even more records,” he said. 

And he did just that.

Last week the Western Cape-born set a new record for the fastest time in the shortest distance, beating an earlier record set in 2021. He covered the race a second faster than Jerry Motsau in 2021, establishing a new long-distance running standard in South Africa. 

“I prefer not to get too far ahead of myself. Even now, breaking this record is incredibly thrilling, but I remain grateful for my accomplishments. It’s a rare opportunity for anyone to break a record, and two days later, I find myself still expressing gratitude to God.” 

Wildshutt has already qualified for the World Senior Athletics Championships in Hungary in two events

“I’m currently deciding which event to focus on in Hungary. While I qualified for the 5000m based on time and for the 10 000 through world rankings, I am leaning towards dedicating my efforts to the 10 000 as I believe I have a better chance of performing well in that event. 

“Qualifying for the world champs was beyond my wildest expectations. Although I’ve always excelled in the 10 000, I do enjoy the 5000m more and I’m determined to enhance my performance in both disciplines.”