South Africa’s hopes rest on Jo-Ane du Plessis in the javelin and Sinesipho Dambile in the 200m final as the World Athletics Championships reach a crucial stage in Tokyo.
Tokyo, Japan (19 September 2025) – The World Championship in Tokyo wrap up this weekend, and Team South Africa continues its push for podium finishes, with two athletes stepping into the spotlight today.
Earlier in the week, national champion Sinesipho Dambile delivered a breakthrough performance in the men’s 200m semifinals, clocking a personal best of 19.97 seconds. His time earned him a spot in Friday’s final, making him the eighth South African athlete to break the 20-second barrier. The rising star will return to the track this afternoon to fight for a medal.
View this post on Instagram
Also in action today is Olympic silver medallist Jo-Ane du Plessis, who competes in the women’s javelin qualification round. Du Plessis, one of South Africa’s most consistent performers on the global stage, will be aiming to progress to the finals as the Championships enter their final three days.
Athletics South Africa President, James Moloi, highlighted the importance of these performances.
“We are now very desperate for a medal in any colour. Dambile gives us hope, so does Jo-Ane du Plessis in the javelin. All the best to our athletes still in competition and hopefully the weather and everything else, will favour them in their competitions. May they achieve personal best performances.”
Now as the global showpiece edges closer to its conclusion, South Africa rallies behind its athletes. With Jo-Ane and Sinesipho flying the flag on day seven, the nation’s hopes are alive for a place on the podium.
Sources: Various Linked Above
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google.
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:
Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.
by 