Mthi Mthimkhulu, a blazing 400m athlete from the University of the Free State (UFS), just proved that dreams do come true on the world stage after sprinting with heart at the World Athletics Relays in China, helping South Africa make some serious history!
Guangzhou, China (23 May 2025) – He set out to make his mark in a historic event for South African athletics, and Mthi Mthimkhulu did just that.
Earlier this month, the standout 400m athlete from the University of the Free State (UFS) recently represented South Africa as a key player in both the men’s and mixed 4x400m relay teams at the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China.
According to UFS, Mthimkhulu competed in the SA men’s 4x400m relay heat alongside teammates Udeme Okon, Lythe Pillay, and Zakithi Nene on Saturday, 10 May. Together, they absolutely owned the track, clocking a world-leading time of 3:00.00 in the first heat!
The following day, Mthimkulu participated in the mixed 4x400m relay, where the team finished in fifth place.
And in a truly epic final, the men’s 4x400m relay team stormed to victory in a mind-blowing 2:57.50, not only winning gold but also shattering the South African record set at the Paris 2024 Olympics!
Mthimkhulu’s selection for the South African relay teams was based on his impressive ranking, as he is currently ranked in the top six in South Africa, UFS states.
The championships in Guangzhou proved to be a landmark event, with South Africa securing double gold medals in both the men’s 4x100m and 4x400m relays, while the women’s 4x400m team claimed a bronze medal.
All four South African teams advanced to the finals of their respective events, earning automatic qualification for the World Athletics Championships scheduled to be held in Tokyo in September 2025!
For Mthimkhulu, this wasn’t just a win, it was a triumph for South African athletics.
He humbly credits a large part of his success to his athletics coach, Thomas Jonda.
“If it wasn’t for him, I don’t believe I would have been in this position I am in today,” he said, adding that their commitment and belief as a two-man team helped them achieve these accolades together.
Sources: University of the Free State
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