Team SA Confident of Defending African Athletics Title in Nigeria

(The Post News)– A confident 70-strong South African team has begun its journey to Nigeria, aiming to retain its title at the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) U18/U20 African Athletics Championships.

Due to limited flight availability, the team has been split into two travel groups. The first, consisting of over 50 members, departed in the early hours of Monday morning. The second group is set to leave later in the evening on Rwandan Airways, with an overnight stop in Kigali before continuing to Nigeria on Tuesday.

Before departure, athletes, coaches, and parents gathered at the OR Tambo Garden Court hotel in Isando, where team officials reassured families that all safety and logistical arrangements were in place. Head of delegation John Mathane, who is also Athletics South Africa’s newly elected vice president, addressed the group alongside other team managers.

The athletes, some anxious but enthusiastic, were briefed on important aspects of the trip, including behavior expectations, team protocols, their safety, and the weather conditions expected in West Africa.

While a few of the young athletes admitted to feeling nervous, the mood was mostly upbeat, with high hopes of continuing South Africa’s dominance on the track and field. The team will compete against the best of the continent in a championship known for launching the careers of future Olympic stars.