Young Rising South African sprinter Bayanda Walaza has already set his eyes on the World Athletics Championships that will be staged in Tokyo, Japan in September, 2025.
Speaking after arrival in South Africa after his teammates made a statement in China in the 4x100m relay last week making a qualification, Walaza believes this is the time to show the world how strong South Africa team is.
“My goal for Tokyo is to show the whole world that South Africa is actually strong,” he said. “People must not take us out. When we got that relay medal, it brought a spirit among us as a team, and as a country, that we are capable of more. It boosted our confidence individually, too.”
Having tasted team success, Bayanda Walaza is now eyeing individual medals. “Doing it as a team proves we’re among the greatest, but now I want to also do it individually. That same mentality we had in the relay, we need to carry into our solo races.”
Looking Ahead: “I Want to Race the Big Names”
When asked about his individual competition plans, Bayanda was honest and focused.
“I want to be competitive. I’ve got a few races lined up in Europe, possibly a Diamond League event. I want to get used to the atmosphere and race against big names—so I can be comfortable and not panic, even on big stages.”
Reflecting on his false start earlier, he added, “I’ve learned from it. I forgive myself, but I also make sure I don’t repeat the mistake. Even if I have to start late, I’ll do it right. I’m that kind of person.”
From Juniors to Professional Level
Bayanda admits the jump from junior to senior level hasn’t been easy. “I’ve been in the junior stage for long. I thought because of my times, it would be easier at senior level. But it’s not. I’m still finding my comfort zone and learning how to stay calm.”
In the semi-finals, he says, he was relaxed and even playful. But the final brought unfamiliar pressure. “I wasn’t as mentally strong as I thought. I need to grow into the senior circuit and be comfortable competing at that level.
With four major world events under his belt—the World U20 Championships, World Relay Championships, Olympics, and most recently the World Athletics Relays—Bayanda credits his journey to faith.
“It’s God. Every time I qualify, I learn something new. This path isn’t just mine—it’s for the whole team. The medals are a blessing, but they also bring new challenges.”
In China, he experienced stardom like never before.
“People wanted selfies, pictures… I felt like a star. It’s different than in South Africa, where they know me and it’s more relaxed. I like that attention, but I’m learning to be comfortable in it—to use it as motivation, not pressure.”
On the Future, Bayanda vows there will be no more false starts ending with a firm promise
“False starts? Never again. I’ve worked on it with my coach. We’ve studied the mistakes, and I promise next time, I’ll get it right.”
With the confidence of a rising star and the humility of a learner, Bayanda is embracing his journey—one race at a time.
