Athletics SA boss James Moloi thrilled ahead of National Championships
24th April 2025
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Athletics South Africa (ASA) president James Moloi says he’s eager to witness who will emerge as the new national 100m champion in the absence of Akani Simbine at the National Senior Championships starting today at the Puk McArthur Stadium in Potchefstroom.
Simbine has been granted leave to compete in the Diamond League in China on Saturday.
A strong advocate for youth development, Moloi told SABC Sport that rising stars like 18-year-olds Bayanda Walaza and Thabo Letebele, who will headline Thursday night’s 100m final, represent the bright future of South African athletics.
Other athletes set to compete in the 100m race include local stars Bradley Nkoana, Benjamin Richardson, and Cheswill Johnson, among others.
“I’m really looking forward to the championships—it’s an exciting time,” said Moloi.
“We’re developing the next generation of global champions, and I’m confident these young athletes will rise to the occasion in front of a packed crowd.
Akani is a true icon of South African sprinting, and it would be incredible to witness the crowning of a new national champion after nearly a decade.”
The men’s 100m is not the only event to watch this weekend in the North West province. Marione Fourie (100m hurdles), Jo-Ann van Dyk (javelin), and Lythe Pillay (400m) will also be in action in the Diamond League in China and will not be able to defend their titles.
Glenrose Xaba and US-based Adriaan Wildschutt are eyeing strong performances in the women’s and men’s 5000m races, respectively.
Viwe Jingqi, the reigning women’s 100m champion, heads into the competition as the favourite to defend her title.
Meanwhile, Prudence Sekgodiso will make her return in the 800m and 1500m — her first races since clinching gold in the 800m at the World Indoor Championships in March. With athletes chasing qualifying standards for the World Senior Championships in Tokyo later this year, the stage is set for an exciting showdown.
“This event gives our athletes a great chance to secure qualification for the World Championships right here at home, allowing them to head into the European season next month without added pressure.
It’s the ideal stage to chase those qualifying times. We’re excited about the competition ahead and wish all the athletes the best of luck,” said Moloi.
