At just 18, Bayanda Walaza has emerged as one of South Africa’s most electrifying young athletes, capturing the world’s attention with his blazing speed and youth. His journey from a promising schoolboy sprinter to a global champion epitomises not only personal achievement but also the potential of South African sprinting on the world map.
Walaza’s meteoric rise began with his impressive performances on the local track. His exceptional talent was evident early on, and by 2023, he had already made headlines with a bronze medal in the 100m at the African U18 Championships in Zambia.
This was just the start of a breakthrough period for the young sprinter, who would go on to make history in 2024 by winning two gold medals at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima. There, he claimed victory in both the 100m and 200m events, becoming the first South African to secure gold in the blue-ribbon 100m event at this level. The win in Lima was particularly significant, as it came shortly after he returned from the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he won an Olympic silver medal in the men’s 4x100m relay.
Winning both sprint events in Lima demonstrated Walaza’s versatility and cemented his place as a rising star. “This is special, especially for my people from South Africa; this means a lot,” Walaza said after his win in Peru. “This is an extremely emotional moment for me. This was the best thing – I have never felt like this before. Okay, the Olympics. But this one, it’s about me! It feels special.” His triumphs have not only made him a household name in South Africa but also a beacon of hope for young athletes across the continent.
The unconventional path
What sets Walaza apart is not just his speed but also his distinctive running style. Known for his unorthodox technique, which has earned him the nickname “Wobble Wobble,” Walaza’s form diverges from traditional sprinting norms. His coach, Thabo Matebedi, observes that Walaza’s unique style, particularly his arm movement and running mechanics, is integral to his performance. “It’s his survival mechanism,” Matebedi said. “His brain and body are connected in a way that helps him push through the final stages of the race. Changing his style could disrupt this balance.”
This unconventional style is now part of Walaza’s brand. Instead of trying to fit into a traditional mould, he has embraced his unique form, turning it into a secret weapon that keeps his opponents guessing.
Tragedy to triumph
While his running style and achievements on the track have set him apart, Walaza’s journey is also shaped by his personal history. When he was just 10 years old, Walaza witnessed the tragic death of his father during a violent altercation. “He lost his father in a violent fight when his dad got shot,” his mother, Tholiwe Walaza, shared. “He experienced all that. After that, it was tough. As a mother, I had to do something.”
In the wake of this tragedy, Tholiwe sought counselling for herself and her son, helping him cope with the trauma and channel his grief into a passion for athletics. Walaza’s mother played a crucial role in his emotional recovery and has been a steadfast pillar of support throughout his journey.
Balancing academics and athletics
While many young athletes focus solely on their sports careers, Walaza has managed to excel both on the track and in the classroom. Shortly after returning from the Olympics, he sat for his preliminary matric exams at Curro Hazeldean High School in Pretoria, before jetting off to Peru for the World U20 Championships. There, amidst a whirlwind of preparation and competition, he clinched the 100m and 200m titles. “This has boosted my confidence to a point where I want to go for everything,” he said. “Even though I’ll still be a junior next year, I’ll compete against the seniors and show them what I can do.”
Walaza’s aspirations extend beyond his own accomplishments. He is driven by a vision to elevate South African sprinting on the global stage, drawing inspiration from fellow athletes like Akani Simbine. “I want to put South African sprinting on the map,” Walaza said. “When I finish with athletics, I want to know that I’ve inspired other kids and fulfilled the dreams of South Africans who didn’t make it.” His ambition is not only to achieve personal success but also to contribute to the broader narrative of South African athletics.
Highlighting his commitment to developing his talent at home, Walaza recently chose to stay in South Africa and train at the University of Pretoria (Tuks) instead of accepting offers from several prestigious U.S. universities.
With a strong support system, a clear vision, and an unwavering commitment to his goals, Bayanda Walaza is not just sprinting toward a bright future – he’s determined to redefine the path for all who follow.
