by Alfonz Juck
Akani Simbine, photo by PhotoRun.netSimbine twice sub 10
POTCHESFTROOM (RSA, Apr 21): South African record holder Akani Simbine confirmed who is the fastest in the country and currently also in the World. He clocked during first day of National Championships first 10.06 (+0.3) in heats, then superb 9.94 (+0.2) in semifinals and won the title in cold evening in 9.95 against -0.7 wind. He has now in total 12 legal sub 10 times in his career. Respect to 400 m World record holder Wayde Van Niekerk who with strong finish was second 10.04 (10.22 in heats and 10.05 in semifinals) just edging Thando Roto also 10.04, fourth Henricho Bruintjies 10.17. Another top sprinter Anaso Jobodwana did not run the final due to a cramp (10.19 in heats). The same for female fastest Carina Horn who after 11.13 (+0.6) in heats and 11.10 (+0.8) in semifinals did not contest the final due to abdominal pain. Title went to Alyssa Conley 11.41 (-0.2). Sunette Viljoen won javelin 63.49, Wenda Nel 400 m hurdles 55.16 (55.17 in heats) and Le Roux Hamman men race 49.35 ahead of LJ Van Zyl 49.52. Sensation in the 5000 m as home favorite Elroy Gelant was clearly leading going into final lap but was eventually beaten by Thabang Mosiako (14:03.84 PB to 14:05.59). Phil-Mar Janse Van Rensburg won men javelin 79.86, Caster Semenya eased in women 800 m heats 2:08.05 and Ranti Dikgale posted personal best 45.74 in men 400 m heats.
