Samuel Sepeng backs middle-distance runners to make the podium at the Olympic Games

The Games are set to transpire in the capital City of France from July 26 to August 11, 2024.

Nonetheless, uncertainties loom over Athletics South Africa’s (ASA) performance in major international competitions.

ASA has fallen short of clinching medals in four consecutive championships, including the World Championships in Doha 2019, Oregon 2021, and Budapest 2023, as well as the preceding Olympic Games in Tokyo.

Historically, the nation relied on middle-distance events like the 1 500m and 800m for medal success, with the late Mbulaeni Mulaudzi and retired runners Hazekiel Sepeng, and Johan Cronje, to mention a few, contributing significantly.

Despite the past triumph, ASA is currently grappling to replicate that success in the middle-distance events with the present crop of middle-distance runners.  

Samuel Sepeng contributed to the success of the multiple Olympic gold medallist Caster Semenya’s career, but it’s a struggle to produce the same type of athletes in his training stable.

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“Reflecting on the past, there was a time when our nation heavily depended on middle-distance runners, and sprinters were seemingly absent from the scene. Following the era of my brother, Hazekiel, and his contemporaries, the landscape shifted, and sprinters emerged prominently. Although there were moments of despair, I am optimistic about the resurgence of middle-distance running,” shared Sepeng in his interview with SABC Sport.

“Notable talents like Kabelo Mohlosi, clocking an impressive 1:45:01, showcase our growing strength in these events. Prudence Sekgodiso and Tshepo Tshite, who train with me at the High-Performance Centre at the University of Pretoria, exemplify our renewed focus. While Caster Semenya was a significant reliance, the current crop of athletes are making strides, and I firmly believe that we will witness several reaching the Olympic Games final in Paris next year,” added Sepeng.

Sepeng encouraged the athletes to remain committed to their training and diligently prepare for the upcoming Games.

“Do not underestimate the potential of the middle-distance runners. They will undoubtedly excel and rise to the occasion next year,” he concluded.