Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 128, March 2020 | Page 44

Flying Finish to School of Speed Olympian Wenda Nel with Precious Molepo The PUMA School of Speed’s 2020 talent search campaign culminated in Pretoria on 29 February with the much-anticipated PUMA School of Speed #5 finale, and the fireworks on the tracks had the spectators on their feet. – BY JACKY McCLEAN T he PUMA School of Speed is a national series of five track and field meets that was launched in 2016 with the goal of identifying exceptional young South African athletes who believe that their future is #ForeverFaster. Catering for track and field stars between the ages of 14 and 19, the PUMA School of Speed Series features the following events: 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, Long Jump, High Jump, and the 90m/100m/110m Hurdles. Michael Meyer, Managing Director of presenting events company Stillwater Sports, says, “As part of our fifth year celebration, the 2020 PUMA School of Speed travelled to Paarl, Johannesburg, Potchefstroom, Mbombela and Tshwane between January and February, and each meet saw brilliant performances.” The SA series forms part of an international talent identification campaign sponsored by PUMA, with retired Olympic and World Champion sprinter Usain Bolt as School of Speed Principal, with local middle-distance Olympian Gena Löfstrand returning for a second year as Vice Principal. She says the PUMA School of Speed Series has been extremely important for South African athletics. “This Series brings together the future champions from all over the country and gives them the opportunity to showcase their talent at a well-supported, world class event. It’s something for young athletes to set goals for and work hard towards. Also, the atmosphere at the PUMA School of Speed is what makes it so special. It’s fun, exciting, and inspiring. It’s events like this that keep athletics alive in South Africa!” (Zimbabwe) was a force to be reckoned with in the Boys’ U/19 400m, claiming gold in a time of 48.14. “The PUMA School of Speed is amazing. I entered because I knew that I could improve my time, and coming first means a lot, but it also means that there is more room to improve,” he said. The Boys’ U/19 200m was dominated by Ivan Danny Geldenhuys from Namibia, who is studying at Akademia and running for TUKS. He claimed top spot on the podium in 21.18. “The PUMA School of Speed is always a fun event to participate in, and it’s the best organised meet that I’ve been to. Also, I entered today because it’s on my home ground, where I train.” The Girls’ U/19 200m title went to Banele Shabangu from Prestige College, who has been going #ForeverFaster for the last three years at the School of Speed. “The PUMA School of Speed is an awesome meeting that gives athletes a lot of opportunities,” she says, adding that she was thrilled with her time. “I got a new PB today, from a 24.5. to 24.48. I wasn’t Originally from Soweto, but now living in Pretoria, Phatutshedzo Maswangani showed the competition a clean pair of heels in the Boys’ U/19 100m, claiming victory in 10.42. “The PUMA School of Speed has a good vibe and is a good experience. It’s my first race of the season and I came out happy, because it sets the tone for the season.” The Girls’ U/19 100m title was claimed by Antoinette van der Merwe from the University of Pretoria in an impressive time of 11.68. “The PUMA School of Speed is one of my favourite meets, because the people that are running are really good, so it gives you a good idea of where you are in the season. Coming first means a lot, because of the great competition!” she says. Future is Bright “The 2020 PUMA School of Speed Series has treated us to exciting competition, good sportsmanship and great results,” says PUMA Marketing Director Brett Bellinger. “The future stars came prepared, focused and ready to go #ForeverFaster, and the results were impressive. We are proud to close off the 2020 season on such a high note, and we are really excited to identify the five #FutureStars that will join the PUMA Squad for the duration of 2021. These names will be released shortly.” In addition to representing the brand, these five athletes will have access to PUMA’s elite running ambassadors, who will be on hand ready to offer guidance on and off the track. Star Performers The finale at the Bestmed Tuks Athletics Stadium in Tshwane was buzzing with excitement as the future stars of SA track and field toed the line, ready to prove that their future is #ForeverFaster. Some of the highlights amongst the events included Precious Molepo from Prestige College winning the Girls’ U/15 400m in 53.93. “I’ve taken part in the 400m event since last year, and I really like it. Hard work pays off, and I bettered my time, so I am very happy,” she said. In the Girls’ U/19 400m Lene van Heerden from Randburg High School took top honours in 55.96. “I love the PUMA School of Speed, it’s a great opportunity to improve your times,” she says.” Benjamin Nyakudya from Murehwa High School 44 Phatutshedzo Maswangani Ivan Danny Geldenhuys For further information on the PUMA School of Speed Series, please contact [email protected] or visit www.schoolofspeed.com ISSUE 128 MARCH 2020 / www.modernathlete.co.za Banele Shabangu expecting that, but I was running with very fast people.”