SA sprint star Simbine storms to Diamond League victory in Italy

News24
11 Jun 2021, 17:14 GMT+10

South African sprint star Akani Simbine snatched victory in the men's 100m race at the World Athletics Diamond League meeting in Florence, Italy on Thursday night.

Simbine secured his first Diamond League win of the season, dipping on the line to take the short sprint in 10.08 seconds.

The African and Commonwealth champion edged out British athlete Chijindu Ujah who grabbed second place in 10.10.

In the men's 400m race, fellow South African Zakithi Nene finished fourth in 46.23. World Championships silver medallist Anthony Jose Zambrano of Colombia won convincingly in 44.76, crossing the line more than a full second clear of his nearest opponent.

Wenda Nel closed SA's participation, taking fourth spot in the women's 400m hurdles contest, clocking 55.20. Dutch athlete Femke Bol earned a comfortable victory in 53.44.

"Congratulations to Akani for winning his first Diamond League of the season!" said Athletics SA James Moloi said in a statement. "He has been working very hard with his coach and support staff.

"What he has accomplished can only be through dedication and utmost discipline. His time may not reflect what he is capable of, but his confidence will be highly boosted by the win against a credible line-up of the day.

"We urge all our athletes to make use of every opportunity they may get to compete as competitions are not easy to access especially outside the country during this time of the global pandemic. So, use the competitions currently at our provinces to qualify and to prepare for the Olympics."

The fourth leg of the World Athletics Diamond League series will be held in Oslo, Norway on 1 July.

Source: News24

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