Caster Semenya

While not competing at the event, Caster Semenya’s legacy looms large as her 1,500m South African record of 3:59.92 sets a high standard in middle-distance running. Although this benchmark might not be on Sekgodiso’s immediate agenda, it remains a notable point of reference in South African athletics.

Danielle Verster

Adding intrigue to the 1,500m race is 21-year-old rising star Danielle Verster. As the daughter of former South African middle-distance stalwart and current coach Jean Verster, Danielle is poised to challenge Sekgodiso and make her own mark in the discipline.

Luvo Manyonga

The men’s long jump will steal the spotlight with Olympic silver medallist Luvo Manyonga leading the charge. After a challenging hiatus marked by personal setbacks and a four-year ban for missing a drugs test, the 34-year-old has begun his comeback. At a recent invitational in Stellenbosch, Manyonga recorded a 7.31m jump, and he now aims to regain his former brilliance on the bigger stage.

Jovan van Vuuren

In the long jump arena, Jovan van Vuuren is set to be a formidable rival to Manyonga. Having qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics with a personal best of 8.30m at Pilditch Stadium last March, van Vuuren is now focused on hitting a qualifying mark of 8.27m for the world championships.

Ferdinand Omanyala

The men’s 100m race promises high-speed excitement with Kenyan superstar Ferdinand Omanyala leading the field. With a personal best of 9.77 seconds, Omanyala is the clear favourite. However, as he kicks off his season, there’s an air of anticipation over whether he can maintain his top form.

Luxolo Adams

Also vying for glory in the 100m is South Africa’s own Luxolo Adams. Recently overlooked for the Paris Olympics due to injury, Adams is determined to secure his spot for the world championships. With a personal best of 10.13 seconds in the 100m, he is setting his sights on breaking the elusive 10-second barrier.

Letsile Tebogo

Adding international flair to the sprint events is Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo. Competing in the 400m, Tebogo brings his dynamic speed and promising talent to a field rich with competition.

Zakithi Nene

In the same 400m event, South African athlete Zakithi Nene is expected to showcase his abilities. His participation further enriches the competitive landscape of the race, promising an exciting contest for fans and competitors alike.

Rounding out the event’s diverse athletic disciplines, Kyle Blignaut will represent in the shot put. His presence adds to the multifaceted nature of the day’s competitions, ensuring that fans of field events have plenty to cheer about.