The Athletics South Africa (ASA) Awards lit up Montecasino in Fourways on Saturday night, celebrating a year of extraordinary achievements in South African athletics. Among the glittering array of stars, javelin thrower Jo-Ane van Dyk and sprinter Akani Simbine stole the show, each walking away with two major awards.
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Van Dyk: A Star is Born
Jo-Ane van Dyk had a breakout season that culminated in a silver medal at the Paris Olympics in the javelin throw. Her performances earned her the titles of Female Athlete of the Year and Female Field Athlete of the Year, marking her as a rising force in South African athletics.
Van Dyk’s success is a significant moment for field events, an area that has often been overshadowed by track events in South Africa. Her achievements prove that talent and dedication in these disciplines can shine just as brightly.
Simbine: Sprinting to Glory
Akani Simbine, one of South Africa’s most consistent performers on the track, had a season to remember. He was awarded Male Athlete of the Year and Male Track Athlete of the Year—a testament to his incredible performances in 2024.
Simbine anchored the South African 4x100m relay team to a silver medal at the Paris Olympics in a thrilling final. Individually, he smashed the national record in the 100m with a time of 9.82 seconds, finishing fourth in one of the most competitive Olympic finals ever. These awards recognize not just his speed but also his ability to deliver when it matters most.
Spotlight on Other Winners
The ASA Awards also highlighted other outstanding performers. Marathon runner Elroy Gelant was honored as Outside Stadium Male Athlete of the Year for his consistent excellence over long distances.
Rogail Joseph, who clinched gold in the 400m hurdles at the African Games and Championships, was named Female Track Athlete of the Year. Discus thrower Victor Hogan earned Male Field Athlete of the Year, showcasing South Africa’s strength in throwing events. Fan favorite Prudence Sekgodiso, who reached the Olympic 800m final and won two Diamond League races, was voted Personality of the Year.
Full List of Winners
Male Athlete of the Year – Akani Simbine (100m/4x100m)
Female Athlete of the Year – Jo-Ane van Dyk (javelin throw)
Personality of the Year – Prudence Sekgodiso (800m)
Male Track Athlete of the Year – Akani Simbine (100m/4x100m)
Female Track Athlete of the Year – Rogail Joseph (400m hurdles)
Male Field Athlete of the Year – Victor Hogan (discus throw)
Female Field Athlete of the Year – Jo-Ane van Dyk (javelin throw)
Outside Stadium Male Athlete of the Year – Elroy Gelant (marathon)
Outside Stadium Female Athlete of the Year – Glenrose Xaba (10km/marathon)
Junior Male of the Year – Bayanda Walaza (100m/200m/4x100m)
Junior Female of the Year – Hannah van Niekerk (400m hurdles)
Male Prospect of the Year – Matodzi Ndou (110m hurdles)
Female Prospect of the Year – Tumi Ramokgopa (400m hurdles)
Male Athlete of the Year with a Disability – Mpumelelo Mhlongo (100m/200m)
Female Athlete of the Year with a Disability – Simone Kruger (discus throw)
Male Coach of the Year – Terseus Liebenberg (javelin throw)
Female Coach of the Year – Violet Semenya (long distances)
Male Technical Official of the Year – Qhumalukile Mvelase
Female Technical Official of the Year – Kedibone Baloyi
Province of the Year – Eastern Province Athletics
SuperSport Moment of the Year – SA men’s 4x100m relay team securing Olympic silver
Bright Future for South African Athletics
With icons like Simbine and Van Dyk leading the way and a new generation stepping up, South African athletics is set for a thrilling future on the global stage. Their journeys remind us that with hard work, perseverance, and belief, greatness is within reach. To the youth dreaming of their own moment in the spotlight, these athletes prove that the possibilities are endless when you dare to chase them. The future isn’t just bright—it’s yours to create.
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