Track legend LJ Van Zyl advises young athletes to invest their earnings

Van Zyl, married to four-time Soweto Marathon champion Irvette Van Zyl, holds the national 400m hurdles record of 47.66 seconds. 

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The 39-year-old retired from athletics at 33 after 17 years of participation and now works as a lecturer while also contributing as a part-time analyst for a pay-tv channel. Speaking to SABC Sport, he emphasized the importance of education and financial planning to secure a stable future.

''I was one of the fortunate ones, I have earned some money in athletics. You also get used to a lifestyle, but scale down on a third of the salary you're used to - remember the Diamond League, the club money and shoe sponsorship, and what happens when it is all gone? You start from the start. And fortunately for me I worked as a teaching assistant at the University of Pretoria, and there was an open vacancy and I applied and got the job,'' said Van Zyl.

Van Zyl explained to the national broadcaster that, unlike today, there was a lack of financial literacy resources for him and his peers during their time as athletes. He pointed out that, in contrast, current athletes now have access to numerous platforms that help them learn how to save and invest their earnings.

''No, there wasn't. You're on your own, it's you. Someone spoke about a mentor and a role model, we didn't have that. But now there's something in place on how to manage finances,'' added Van Zyl.

For example, Irvette, his wife, earned R1 million in prize money from her four victories at the Soweto Marathon. He revealed to SABC Sport that they wisely invested the money to secure a future for their two sons.

''We just save it, we just like a simple lifestyle. So important to invest and then pay attention to other things,'' he expressed.

Van Zyl urged the young athletes to stay focused, avoid unnecessary spending, and be mindful of the company they keep.