Media release

Government congratulates Wayde van Niekerk

15 August 2016

15 August 2016

Government congratulates track sprinter Wayde van Niekerk for setting a new world record in the men’s 400 meters category at the Rio Olympics. Van Niekerk won the 400 meters in an astonishing 43.03 seconds and is reported to be the first man to win the Olympic gold from lane 8.

GCIS Acting Director-General, Donald Liphoko, said, “Government congratulates Wade on his outstanding achievement. We celebrate his astounding feat. His victory is one that broke the long-standing world record of Michael Johnson from the United States of America. He has made South Africa very proud and we wish him well for his future endeavours.”

Government is also proud of all South African participants for carrying the country’s flag high at the Rio Olympics. The country looks forward to watching South African participants bringing home more medals.

Enquiries:
Donald Liphoko
GCIS Acting Director-General
Cell: 082 901 0766

Issued by Government Communication and Information System

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