Simbine’s comments come as a new generation of sprinters makes contrasting choices about training and education. Rising talents Bayanda Walaza and Udeme Okon have reportedly declined scholarship offers in the United States (US), opting to remain in SA to continue their development. In contrast, teenage prospect Karabo Letebele has chosen the overseas pathway, joining fellow SA Shaun Maswanganyi in America.

Simbine, long one of the country’s most consistent performers on the international stage, said both routes can work, but stressed that a move abroad should be driven by a clear purpose rather than assumption.
“There has to be something that draws you to leave,” Simbine said. “For me, I had the opportunity to leave, but I didn’t. I stayed, and it worked out… At the end of the day, the athlete needs to decide what makes sense.”

Simbine pointed to recent domestic success across sprint disciplines as evidence that elite development can happen locally, with athletes benefiting from familiar support structures. “We don’t have to go out the country to find or make your talent better,” Simbine said, adding that athletes can also pursue education in SA.

Despite advocating for local pathways, Simbine praised Letebele’s early progress in the US and emphasised that long-term success would depend on patience, discipline and consistent development. Simbine encouraged Letebele to remain grounded and committed to the process.

–SABCSport/ChannelAfrica–