Triple qualification: SA sprinters secure 2027 World Championship spots with historic silver medals

South Africa's relay teams delivered a historic performance at the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, securing two silver medals and qualifying three separate squads for the 2027 World Athletics Championships.

The men's sprint and middle-distance teams led the charge, both setting new South African national records during their podium finishes on Sunday.

MEN’S 4X100M: A RECORD-BREAKING SPRINT
Anchored once again by the veteran Akani Simbine, the men’s 4x100m quartet pushed the United States to the very limit. The team clocked a blistering 37.49 seconds, a new national record, finishing just 0.06 seconds behind the USA.

The Team: Moss Mvuyo, Cheswill Johnson, Bradley Nkoana, and Akani Simbine.

Achievement: Silver Medal & 2027 World Championship Qualification.

MEN’S 4X400M: CONTINENTAL CLASH
In a thrilling battle against hosts Botswana, the South African men’s 4x400m team smashed the national record with a time of 2:55.07. Although Botswana took gold in a Championship Record time, South Africa fended off Australia to claim silver.

The Team: Mthi Mthimkulu, Lythe Pillay, Leendert Koekemoer, and Zakithi Nene.

Achievement: Silver Medal & 2027 World Championship Qualification.

MIXED & WOMEN'S HIGHLIGHTS
The Mixed 4x400m team (Gardeo Isaacs, Rogail Joseph, Bradley Maponyane, and Marlie Viljoen) secured their spot for the 2027 World Championships by finishing second in their Sunday heat.

The women's teams showed resilience, with the 4x100m squad setting a national record of 43.22 during Saturday’s heats. Despite achieving season's best times, both the women’s 4x100m and 4x400m teams finished just outside the overall standings required for automatic 2027 qualification.