Tshwane – Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi joined City of Tshwane Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya and Deputy Mayor Eugene Modise at the inaugural Simbine Classic, a landmark event aimed at elevating athletics in the province and boosting sports tourism.
Held at Pilditch Stadium, the event forms part of the prestigious World Athletics Continental Tour and attracted top international competitors alongside South Africa’s finest athletes.
The highlight of the day saw sprint star Akani Simbine storm to victory in the men’s 100m, leading an impressive performance from Team South Africa across multiple events.
Lesufi, who presented medals to top-performing athletes, praised both the level of competition and the vision behind the event.
“I want to congratulate Akani Simbine, not just for the concept, but for it coming to reality,” Lesufi told SuperSport. “Watching the young people, the participation, the spirit, means we made the right choice as the Gauteng government to partner with Akani.”
Lesufi also acknowledged the role of national government, thanking Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie for supporting the initiative.
“When we had a discussion about this tournament, he said we are together—and indeed we are together. It will grow from here; there are great opportunities. The future is about partnerships and rewards,” Lesufi said.
Beyond the elite competition, the Simbine Classic was positioned as a platform to nurture local talent and inspire the next generation of athletes. Lesufi expressed optimism about South Africa’s future on the global athletics stage.
“What I saw today really excites me. We are planting a seed. We have been non-existent in terms of Olympic Games, but if we get this right, in the next three or four years we will be standing on podiums receiving medals—and that is what counts,” he concluded