Celebrating World Athletics Day: A Global Stage for Local Heroes

Karen Scheepers
May 7
3 min read

Every year on May 7th, the world unites to celebrate World Athletics Day, a day dedicated to promoting physical activity, track and field sports, and inspiring a new generation of athletes. First initiated in 1996 by the International Association of Athletics Federations (now World Athletics), this celebration aims to foster athletic participation and instill values of fair play, perseverance, and excellence across the globe.

As the world gears up for World Athletics Day 2025, South Africa has already made headlines, not just through participation but by rewriting history. In the weeks leading up to this global celebration, South African athletes have been making bold statements across distances, disciplines, and continents.

Historic Feat in Hamburg: Elroy Gelant Sets a New Marathon Record

29 April 2025, Hamburg Marathon, Germany

South African distance running reached new heights when Elroy Gelant delivered a world-class performance at the 2025 Hamburg Marathon, finishing 4th overall in a blistering time of 2:05:36.

This shattered the previous South African marathon record of 2:06:33, set by Gert Thys in 1999, by an incredible 57 seconds.

With this result, Gelant catapulted himself to 28th on the World Athletics Top List for the 2025 season, earning a stellar 1211 points, a definitive marker of international calibre. More than just a fast time, this was a statement: South African distance running is not only alive but thriving at global level.

Gelant's achievement has redefined what is possible for South African marathoners and will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of distance athletes.

Local Roads, Big Moments: N12 Ultra Marathon Results

4 May 2025, North West Province N12 Ultra Marathon

Closer to home, the N12 Ultra Marathon showcased South Africa’s emerging talent and endurance depth, particularly across the grueling 50km and rapid 10km events:

🔟 10km Highlights

🥇 Dino Nako led the charge, clocking an impressive 30:23 to win the race.
💨 Jerry Motsau followed closely, securing 4th place in 30:56.
👏 Mogomotsi Segomelo finished 11th with a time of 32:55, a strong showing in a highly competitive field.

🏃 Ultra 50km Standout

Tumisang Monnatlala delivered a superb run, finishing 5th overall in 2:56:06.
- He hit the marathon mark (42.2km) in 2:27:22, showcasing exceptional pacing and endurance.

Back on the International Road: Puseletso Mofokeng’s Dual Triumphs

🥉 Durban International Marathon

Puseletso Mofokeng made a strong return to the road circuit, finishing 8th overall at the Durban International Marathon with a season’s best of 2:16:18.
His time earned him 3rd place in the CAA Southern Region Marathon Championship, a podium return that signals his resurgence among Africa’s elite.

⏱️ New Personal Best on the Track

At the ASA National Senior Championships, Mofokeng clocked a personal best of 14:05.89 in the 5000m, narrowly missing a podium finish at 4th place.
A significant result for a marathoner, reflecting his versatility and top-end speed.

USSA Champs: Middle-Distance Glory

💫 Danielle Verster: Double Medalist

Silver in the 1500m (4:30.14)
Bronze in the 800m (2:12.43)

Verster's all-around strength and tactical racing were evident as she took to the podium twice, demonstrating why she’s one of the most exciting middle-distance prospects in the country.

🥈 Christopher Swart: The Silver Streak

800m – 2nd place in 1:49.28
1500m – 2nd place in 3:42.82

Swart displayed remarkable consistency and endurance, claiming double silver and showcasing class across two demanding events.

The Road Ahead: Inspired by Legacy, Driven by Youth

As World Athletics Day 2025 approaches, South Africa's recent performances, both internationally and locally, offer more than celebration; they provide hope and motivation. Athletes like Elroy Gelant and Puseletso Mofokeng embody resilience, ambition, and the heights that can be achieved with dedication.

Whether it’s breaking national records in Hamburg, sprinting to victory in Potchefstroom, or standing proud on podiums in Durban and Pretoria, South African athletics is alive with momentum.