South African sprinters excel at Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi as Nene leads charge
The in-form Zakithi Nene (centre) became only the second South Afrioca runner to dip below 44 seconds in the 400m, after world record holder Wayde van Niekerk, at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi.
Image: BackpagePix
With all the attention focused of Zakithi Nene's blistering world lead of 43.76 to take gold in the 400m at at the Kip Keino Classic in Nairobi on Saturday, there were also podium finishes for Bayanda Walaza in the 100m and Shaun Maswanganyi in the men's 200m contest.
The achievements marked another stellar weekend for South African sprinters.
Nene was the best of the SA athletes on the international track and field circuit this weekend. He became the second SA athlete to run under 44 seconds over the one-lap distance after world record holder Wayde van Niekerk.
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Nene finished well clear of Nigerian athlete Chidi Okezie, who took second place in 44.98. All eyes will be on the one-lap star as he heads for the Rome Diamond League meeting, to see if he can repeat the feat.
Junior record holder Walaza also impressed in the men's 100m race in Nairobi, though he had to settle for the runner-up spot. He 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 this time Walaza looked a little hesitant out of the blocks the second time.
Bayanda Walaza, South Africa's teenage sprint sensation, took silver in the 100m at the Kip Keino Classic at the weekend.
Image: BackpagePix
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