Rio De Janeiro - Aleck Skhosana, the president of Athletics South Africa, is on cloud nine after the brilliant performance of world champion Wayde van Niekerk who set a new world record in the 400m, smashing the 19-year-old record of Michael Johnson of America.
In his wake Van Niekerk, also smashed the Olympic Games record which was previously also held by Johnson of 43.49 in 1996. In the long jump Luvo Manyonga snatched the silver medal to anchor the athletics team performance. “The best is yet to come!” Skhosana said on Monday.
“What we have seen here is outstanding performance that will be part of athletics conversations for many years to come. Wayde just proved that he is in a class of his own. “We are very proud and congratulate his coach, manager and SASCOC for this national achievement. “The silver medal from Luvo has put the cat among the pigeons, because we can look forward to a possible dominating of the IAAF World Championships next year. “ASA congratulates him for taking on the big giants in the long jump and come just 1cm short of the gold medal. His attitude dedication and discipline coupled with focus has taken him to where he is today.
“The coach and the support team must be commended for preparing him and get his mind right throughout the competition season to the Olympics. “We now look forward to all remaining athletes in the various events and hope they are all inspired to meet the challenge of reaching the Olympic podium as well.”
Skhosana also congratulated all athletes who have been part of the athletics team and acknowledged that each has been giving their best for South Africa. - African News Agency (ANA)