Strong fields have been unveiled for the second leg of the ASA Grand Prix series to be held at UJ Stadium in Johannesburg on Wednesday.
We take a look at six athletes who are expected to light up the track.
Bayanda Walaza (200m)
The world junior champion is in spectacular form, having set a national U20 100m record of 9.99 seconds at the Athletics Gauteng North provincial championships in Pretoria last week.
If he hits his straps, Walaza’s 200m personal best of 20.34 will be in danger.
The 19-year-old prodigy is unlikely to have it all his own way, however, against a line-up which also includes former World Championships finalist Luxolo Adams.
Ferdinand Omanyala (100m)
At the opening leg of the Grand Prix series in Pretoria last week, Kenyan star Omanyala was handed a surprise defeat, settling for third place behind Karabo Letebele and Emile Erasmus.
The African record holder will be eager to hit back in Joburg against a field which features the likes of Olympic relay medallist Bradley Nkoana, former Olympian Gift Leotlela and in-form sprinter Sinesipho Dambile.
Viwe Jingqi (100m)
One of South Africa’s most promising athletes, Jingqi will turn out as the firm favourite in the women’s short dash.
The national champion, competing in her first season as a senior athlete, will hope to make a statement by showcasing her form in the early stages of the 2025 campaign.
Her strongest challenge is likely to come from experienced sprinter Tamzin Thomas.
Lythe Pillay (400m)
Having made steady progress in recent years, Pillay looks ready to take the baton from world record holder Wayde van Niekerk as South Africa’s top 400m runner.
The Olympic semifinalist will hope to open his top-flight season in style, but he will need to be at his best to hold off a potential challenge from world junior champion Udeme Okon.
Marione Fourie (100m hurdles)
Fourie had initially been expected to compete at the World Indoor Championships in China this week, but after withdrawing from the national team (following the sudden death of her coach Jaun Strydom), she will turn out instead at the Grand Prix in Joburg.
Having already displayed superb form this year, opening her outdoor campaign last week by clocking 12.77 at the Grand Prix in Pretoria, she should pick up another victory in Joburg.
She might be pushed to the line, however, by exciting junior prospect Tumi Ramokgopa.
Tshepo Tshite (800m)
A former 800m specialist, Tshite has had tremendous success after stepping up to the 1500m distance in recent years.
Making a rare appearance over two laps, he will hope to prove he still has the raw speed in his legs to put up a fight over the shorter distance.
It won’t be easy, however, as he lines up against Ketlhobogile Haingura and Tumo Nkape of Botswana.
Event info
The ASA Grand Prix 2 meeting will be broadcast live on SuperSport Variety 4 (channel 209) between 6pm and 8pm.
The pre-programme at UJ Stadium starts at 1.30pm and the main programme begins at 5.15pm.
Scholars with their varsity cards and students in uniform will be allowed free entry.
* Featured image of Bayanda Walaza by Cecilia van Bers
