ASA boss James Moloi promises success in the relay events in Paris

The camps hosted 24 sprinters, who were specially invited for a two-day training session, focusing on the 4x100m and 4x400m relay teams for both men and women in the North West Province.

The athletes had expressed dissatisfaction, citing insufficient training time and camps following their underwhelming performance in the 4x100m relay event at the World Senior Championships in Budapest, Hungary, in July. Nevertheless, Moloi assured SABC Sport that these camps marked the beginning of a series set to unfold in various regions across the country next year, leading up to the Paris Games.

Prominent athletes like Akani Simbine, who holds the South African record in the 100m with a time of 9.84 seconds, and Wayde Van Niekerk, the world record holder for the 400m with a time of 43.03 seconds, were included in the camp.

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“We are currently in the process of securing funding for the relay teams, aiming to organize multiple camps next year. Our primary goal is to ensure that they depart for Paris with ample time ahead of others, allowing for focused training on baton exchanges and team bonding,” stated Moloi in his interview with SABC Sport. 

“We are determined to eliminate any potential excuses next year. Despite previous complaints from athletes regarding the lack of support from the federation, we are now making every effort to provide comprehensive support from the federation to both the athletes and coaches.

“Our commitment to this endeavour is evident, starting with the coaching symposium in Tshwane after the world championships, followed by the athletes ‘Indaba in January to address pressing issues. The emphasis is squarely on prioritizing the athletes.”