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Van Niekerk and Simbine shine in Silesia─── MORGAN PIEK 08:36 Mon, 17 Jul 2023
The former Free State sprinter, Wayde van Niekerk, and Akani Simbine, stole the show on the track during the World Athletics Diamond League meet in Silesia in Poland.
In the 100m sprint for men, Simbine, was back to his best with winning the photo finish in 9.97 seconds. The world champion, Fred Kerley, of the USA took silver in 9.98 seconds, while Emmanuel Eseme of Cameroon rounded off the podium.
The world record holder, Van Niekerk, in his turn confirmed his early-season form by clocking a time of 44.08 seconds in the 400m sprint for men with a new meeting record.
Following his win van Niekerk said he felt that things are moving in a positive direction and he has happy to record his fastest time in seven years.
“Things are moving in a positive direction. I have been able to train consistently,” said Van Niekerk.
“It is my fastest run in seven years and 44.0 shows that 43 seconds is possible.
“The competition in my event is getting stronger, so I need to work to get better as well.”
This was also a season’s best time for the 31-year-old Van Niekerk.
Morgan Piek OFM Sport
