More national records fall on the final day of the ASA Age Group Championships as South Africa’s young athletes continue to raise the bar.
Johannesburg, South Africa (30 March 2026) – The next generation of South African athletes is already making a serious impact on the track this season.
South Africa’s rising track and field talent once again stole the spotlight at the ASA Age Group Championships in Germiston, where the final day delivered yet another wave of record-breaking performances.
After an already impressive showing earlier in the competition, the closing day added three more national records to the tally.
One of the standout moments came from Matodzi Ndou, who produced a remarkable run in the U20 men’s 400m hurdles. Clocking 48.64 seconds, he not only secured gold but also edged past a long-standing national junior record previously held by one of his role models.
“It feels amazing because the record was held by one of the people who I look up to, Sokwakhana Zazini,” said Ndou. I had hoped to break the national record in the U18 division but I had some struggles, so coming into the U20 age group it feels good to have done this.”
In the U18 girls’ 400m hurdles, Megan Nieman delivered a strong response after an earlier setback in the week. She powered her way to victory in 56.64 seconds, shaving time off her own national record in the process.
“It was fun running with Christi (Loggenberg). She’s a very good athlete and I think we’re going to have a lot of good races in future,” Nieman said.
Field events also had their moment, with Ansume de Beer making a statement in the U20 women’s pole vault. Clearing 4.18m, she improved on her own African mark and showed no signs of slowing down despite recently returning from injury.
“This is my first time jumping since I recovered from an injury, so it’s a big relief that I could jump here and had so much fun,” said De Beer.
The championships also reflected the growing depth of talent across the country, with multiple athletes delivering top-level performances throughout the three days.
On the team front, Athletics Gauteng North dominated the overall standings, finishing comfortably ahead after collecting an impressive haul of medals.
All in all, it was the kind of meet that leaves one thinking, if this is what the next generation is doing now, what’s still to come?
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