Youngster Sinesipho Dambile caused a major upset at the South African championships by beating both Clarence Munyai and Luxolo Adams to clinch the men’s 200m title in Cape Town. Dambile roared to the front to win in a time of 20.55 seconds – which was a good time into a headwind of -1.7 metres per second.
Here we get to know the new track sensation a little better.
You are now the ASA National Championships 200m gold medallist. What made the difference in the final that enabled you to win your first national title?
Sinesipho Dambile: It was cold and very windy. So conditions were tough for all of us. But the difference is a hill in Pretoria we call Tlale. I ran it a lot, especially during Covid. It strengthened my body and it showed today against that wind.
Did you come into the championships with confidence?
SD: Coach and I looked at the line-up and believed I would be top 3 and medal. But I told my team I was going to win. So I had to show my championship heart. I delivered.
Any key factors that boosted your performances this week?
SD: I have been working on my core-strength and my technique. Also Clarence (Munyai) and I spoke before the semi-finals and he said: “Let’s put on a show”.
You already have an SA Under-18 record as well as a world record and gold medal from the U20 World Champs. What have you learnt from these experiences?
SD: That in South Africa when we can work on our techniques, have belief and stick to the plan we can achieve anything, even beat relay records set by the USA!
What are your goals for the rest of 2022 and beyond?
SD: I have been invited to race in Rio and I will use that opportunity to qualify for the World Athletics Championships in the USA in July. Long term I believe that if I can fulfill my potential I will be the world’s fastest 200m runner.
What is the best advice you have received?
SD: Patience! When I had a bad hamstring I called Akani (Simbine) and asked him the secret to how he overcame his injuries. “Patience. Patience. Patience,” he said. I realised that if you get injured, you can learn and grow from the experience.
What shoes do you run in?
SD: PUMA Tokyo evoSPEED Future 2 Spectra sprint spikes
When and why did you become a PUMA Athlete?
SD: Usain Bolt ran in PUMA, and he is still my inspiration. So, when they contacted me in 2020 saying they were looking for the next big thing, I did not hesitate, because they believe in me.
Key influences on your journey?
SD: Clarence (Munyai) and Akani (Simbine) are my elders. They are always there for me. I can call them anytime and they will share all their knowledge and experience. This plays a big role. Last week Clarence told me “You are the next big thing”. With all their support it is no wonder our generation of sprinters is on fire!
Photo: Supplied