Team SA returned from Ghana with 22 medals and top spot on the standings after another dominant African Athletics Championships campaign
Ghana (21 May 2026)- South Africa’s athletics team is coming home from Ghana with plenty to celebrate after finishing top of the medals table at the 2026 CAA African Athletics Senior Championships in Accra.
Team SA produced another strong continental performance, collecting an impressive 22 medals across the competition, including nine gold, four silver and nine bronze medals. It also means South Africa successfully defended its position after topping the medals table at the previous championships in Cameroon in 2024.
There were various standout moments, especially in the men’s 1500. Luan Munnik led teammate Tshepo Tshite home in a brilliant South African one-two finish. Karabo More added another middle-distance gold in the women’s 1500m, while Rogail Joseph successfully defended her African title in the women’s 400m hurdles after also winning the event in 2024.
Former world champion Luvo Manyonga continued his inspiring comeback story by soaring to gold in the men’s long jump, while Valco van Wyk and Ansume de Beer both cleared their way to pole vault gold medals.
Kristi Snyman claimed top spot in the women’s high jump, Aiden Smith powered his way to gold in the men’s shot put and Colette Uys added another gold in the women’s shot put.
In total, eight South African athletes won African titles for the first time in their careers, highlighting both the depth and exciting future of local athletics.
Sprint star Bradley Nkoana added a silver medal in the men’s 100m, while Enya Pooler secured silver in the women’s heptathlon. There were also bronze medals across several events, including the javelin, discus, hammer throw, decathlon and hurdles.
Athletics South Africa Acting President John Mathane praised the team’s efforts after another successful continental campaign.
“Without doubt, the continental showpiece continues to be a great place to build character for our athletes for the global stage of competition. We congratulate each athlete for their efforts and for all achievements that now glorify our Rainbow Nation.”
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