Wayde Van Niekerk is a South African track and field sprinter who competes in the 200 meters and 400 meters. In 2015 he went for gold as he is the reigning world champion for the 400m race he had ran at the World Champions. A week ago Wayde scooped the gold for 200m at the 20th African Senior Championships. Wayde has recently become a Brand Ambassador for Defy and Digital street caught up with this amazing guy before he left to training camp in Europe ahead of Rio 2016.
1. Who is Wayde?
Wayde is just an ordinary guy from the streets of Cape Town. He is ambitious, motivated and courageous.
2. What has been your biggest achievement thus far?
Definitely representing my country at the World Champions last year the reason for this is because I’ve brought home the gold. It’s the best feeling ever, knowing that all your hard work pays off. However I’ve set the bar and I got to keep it at that level or even higher.
Thus far my career has being a total highlight , all that I’m grateful for.
3. What inspires you?
Definitely my family, I couldn’t have done it without their immense support. They always on the go cheering me on no matter which part of the world I’m at. With this support I know I’m inspired and ready to take control and be number 1. Apart from my family, I have the greatest support from my country and one major inspiration and what keeps me motivated is the support from Defy.
4. Who was Wayde as a kid?
I was super energetic. Loved my sport. Growing up in the Capes thought me a lot about life and that is why today I am who I am.
5. If you had to change one thing in our country, what will it be?
Hmm this is a hard one but good question… Data is really expensive, so it will definitely be free wifi. (Chuckles)
6. Do you see anyone as a threat ?
A threat? No, of course not. All those athletes I compete with are my friends. I see them as motivation to push harder and I love competing with my friends.
7. As the youth of SA. What would be your advise to our current generation?
Don’t give up on your dreams. When the going gets though, buckle up, keep the faith and let God take control .
Wayde’s Running Fun Facts:
1. Your favorite spare time activity?
Definitely playing XBox.
2. Favorite Movie genre
Comedy – I love laughing
3. Favorite training partner
My best friend – Gideon Trotter
4. Favorite food
Anything that contains meat and it must be cooked by my mum, it tastes extra special.
– Digital Street wishes Wayde Van Niekerk all the best has he represented South Africa at Rio 2016!
