Pillay recently set a new personal best of 44.31 seconds in the 400m, making him the second-fastest South African in the event behind Van Niekerk. This boosts South Africa’s chances of challenging for a medal at the upcoming World Athletics Relays and Paris 2024.
The trio forms the core of the South African 4x400m team, with Van Niekerk being one of its most experienced members. He has already met Olympic qualifying times and is expected to compete in the one-lap sprint at Paris 2024. Alongside him are rising stars Nene and Pillay, who have also met Olympic qualifying times and are aiming to continue South Africa’s success in the relay on a global stage.
South African teams have had podium finishes in past championships, thanks to former national record holders and other talented athletes contributing to their relay legacy. They will be competing in men’s relay events at the World Relays, where they can secure Olympic quotas by finishing in the top two of each heat.
Other talented athletes such as Clarence Munyai, Akani Simbine, and Van Niekerk will be participating in these events with hope for success at Paris 2024. Overall, South Africa’s relay teams have a strong foundation with a mix of experienced athletes and rising talents, providing hope for potential medal contention at Paris 2024.
South Africa has always been known for its strong athletic prowess, especially when it comes to relays. With Van Niekerk joining forces with Nene and Pillay on this team, they are aiming to continue that legacy and bring home some hardware from Paris 2024.
Their training regime has been rigorous and focused on improving their individual times as well as their ability to work together seamlessly as a team. Their commitment has paid off as they have all met Olympic qualifying times.
This group also includes Clarence Munyai and Akani Simbine who have shown great promise in their own right. Munyai holds the current world record for the 60m hurdles while Simbine won gold at last year’s Commonwealth Games.
South Africa’s track history is rich with many talented athletes who have achieved great things both domestically and internationally. These current athletes are determined to carry on that legacy by winning medals at Paris 2024.
Overall, South Africa’s relay teams are well-positioned for success at both domestic and international levels due to their combination of experience