South African (SA) sprint king Akani Simbine says he is proud of the men\u2019s 4x100m team after their brave effort earned them a silver medal at the World Senior Relay Championships in Botswana this Sunday.<\/p>\n
Competing in front of a packed crowd, with the event hosted on African soil for the first time, the quartet of Simbine, Cheswill Johnson, Bradley Nkoana, and Mvuyo Moss delivered a stunning performance.<\/p>\n
They finished second in 37.49 seconds, setting a new African record, just behind the United States (US) who won gold in 37.43, while Germany took bronze in 37.76.<\/p>\n
Despite injury withdrawals in the build-up, debutants Moss and Johnson stepped up alongside experienced runners Simbine and Nkoana.<\/p>\n
Simbine praised the team for their fighting spirit.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think for me, I said I am proud of them for showing up. I knew that they were going to be able to do it. I knew that we were going to be able to show up today. Yesterday, we were chatting at the table. I dont know if I was chatting with the guys, but I said, while having dinner here, tomorrow we can actually run the African record. I think I was telling Bradley [Nkoana] that,\u201d says Simbine<\/p>\n
\u201cThese guys are there doing what they need to do. Cheswill is running well, Moss is running like crazy, so why not. We are all in shape, running well, so I expected it. Yes, we wanted a gold medal and defend the title, but we came out here, ran well and we had an amazing time out there. We got a medal. We can\u2019t ask for more with an African record. What else can we do?\u201d<\/p>\n
The Olympic silver medallist told the national broadcaster that winning a relay medal feels just as special as an individual one, as it builds confidence ahead of individual races.<\/p>\n
He added that competing against top nations like the US is part of the team\u2019s growth and learning journey.<\/p>\n
Team newcomer, 24-year-old Mvuyo Moss, said there was pressure during the heats, but Simbine encouraged the team to relax and enjoy themselves.<\/p>\n
That approach helped them deliver a strong performance in the final and push the United States all the way.<\/p>\n
Cheswill Johnson\u2019s journey has been remarkable, as he put the long jump event aside to focus on sprinting. The two-time long jumper admitted that the team had their sights set on gold. The 2024 Olympian hopes their performance will inspire young athletes across South Africa.<\/p>\n
He reflected on an emotional moment filled with excitement and celebration.<\/p>\n
World Under-20 100m bronze medallist Bradley Nkoana said South Africa is a proud nation with a rich history. He thanked the fans for their support, adding that the team\u2019s goal was to raise the national flag high and make the country proud.<\/p>\n
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