National champion Zakithi Nene was the best of the South African athletes on the international track and field circuit this weekend, setting a new world lead in the men’s 400m event.
Nene stopped the clock at 43.76 seconds at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi on Saturday, becoming the second SA athlete to run under 44 seconds over the one-lap distance after world record holder Wayde van Niekerk.
He finished well clear of Nigerian athlete Chidi Okezie who took second place in 44.98.
Walaza continues fine form
National junior record holder Bayanda Walaza also impressed in the men’s 100m race, though he settled for the runner-up spot.
Walaza got off to a good start but the athletes were called back by the starter, and though there were no disqualifications for a false start, they were made to go again and Walaza was a little hesitant out the blocks at the second time of asking.
He nonetheless delivered another impressive result, crossing the finish line in 10.03, with Lachlan Kennedy of Australia securing top spot in 9.98.
Runner-up place for Maswanganyi
Among a large contingent of SA athletes competing in Nairobi, Shaun Maswanganyi also managed to find a place on the podium.
Maswanganyi took second place in the men’s 200m contest in a season’s best 20.47, in the absence of compatriot Sinesipho Dambile who withdrew ahead of the race.
Liberian athlete Joseph Fahnbulleh triumphed in 20.40, chasing down Maswanganyi in the battle for the line.
Later in the programme, Maswanganyi went on to finish fourth in the 100m race in 10.24.
Barnard delivers in Poland
Meanwhile, on Friday night, Mondray Barnard took second position at the Irena Szewinska Memorial, a World Athletics Continental Tour meeting in Bydgoszcz.
He clocked 13.49, with Belgian athlete Elie Bacari taking the win in 13.43.
* Featured image by Cecilia van Bers
