Bayanda Walaza has become the joint fifth fastest junior athlete in history by clocking 9.99 seconds in the 100m, setting a South African U20 record. This significant achievement comes on the heels of his Olympic silver and double victory at the World Athletics U20 Championships, establishing him as a top competitor in sprinting.
Bayanda Walaza, a prominent sprinting talent from South Africa, has achieved a significant milestone by breaking the sub-10 second barrier in the 100 meters. On March 16, he recorded a remarkable time of 9.99 seconds at the Gauteng North Provincial Championships, setting a new South African Under-20 record. This accomplishment positions him as the joint fifth fastest junior sprinter in history, alongside being the ninth South African athlete to achieve this feat.
The 19-year-old athlete’s extraordinary performance saw him improve the previous record of 10.03 seconds, established by Bradley Nkoana. Walaza is known for his unique running style and has made a splash on the track, especially after garnering an Olympic silver medal and winning the 100-200 meter double at the 2024 World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima.
In that remarkable championship, Walaza outperformed Australian sprinter Gout Gout in the 200 meters. Gout later showcased his speed by nearly breaking a national record with a 200-meter finish of 20.05 seconds at the Queensland Athletics Championships 2025. Together, they currently hold the fastest 100m and 200m times of the season, despite the early part of the year being focused on indoor events.
In February, Walaza set the 11th fastest time for junior athletes over 60 meters, clocking 6.58 seconds. His initial breakthrough event came in 2024 when he recorded a time of 10.13 seconds at the South African junior championships, ultimately finishing second at the senior nationals to the seasoned sprinter Akani Simbine. With his recent sub-10-second achievement, Walaza has solidified his status as a formidable competitor at the senior level.
Bayanda Walaza’s recent achievement of breaking the sub-10 second barrier in the 100 meters is a significant landmark in his athletic career. With a new South African Under-20 record, he has proven himself as a rising star in the sprinting world. His performances not only showcase his remarkable potential but position him as a serious contender among senior athletes on the global stage.
Original Source: www.olympics.com
