South Africa has been recognised with multiple accolades, receiving three gongs at the annual Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Awards.
Junior sprint sensation Bayanda Walaza was named Best Male Rising Star for his phenomenal performances this season.
The 18-year-old athlete won double gold in the 100m and 200m events at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima.
He also formed part of the SA 4x100m team that earned the silver medal at the Olympic Games in Paris.
Meanwhile, Walaza’s coach Thabo Matebedi received the award for Best African Coach.
Aside from guiding Walaza during a breakthrough season, Matebedi also coached the Curro Hazeldean U18 4x100m relay team – Inam Dlunge, Zattu Hlongwane, Adam Motloung and Matodzi Ndou – to a new world youth best of 39.92 seconds.
There was also continental recognition for the national federation.
Athletics South Africa was named Best African Federation for Development after fielding the largest African team (44 athletes) at the World Athletics U20 Championships where the SA squad finished sixth in the final table with seven medals.
“These accolades are an indication of the influence South Africa has had on African athletics this year,” said Athletics South Africa president James Moloi.
“We are proud of Bayanda Walaza and his coach Thabo Matebedi for receiving this well-earned acknowledgement, and we are grateful to every individual who played a role in ASA being named Best African Federation for Development.”
* Feature image of Bayanda Walaza by Cecilia van Bers
