Prolific UP-Tuks sprinter Akani Simbine has set his sights on breaking his own 200 metres record at the upcoming Varsity Athletics meeting on Tuesday, March 24.
Following a disastrous end to 2014, which saw him suffer a torn hamstring, he proved he is back to his best when he ran a 10.06 in the 100 metres at a league meeting at the University of Pretoria.
“I was not focused on the time [on Saturday], I just wanted to go out and win the event but now I have set myself new goals for the Varsity Athletics meeting.
“I not only want to break my 200 metre record – which I know I am capable of doing – but I also want to break the 10 second barrier. I have been training hard and I am hungrier than ever. Varsity Athletics will be the ideal platform to run a sub-10,” he told varsitysportssa.com.
The third year BSC Information Science student’s year started the same way 2014 ended, when he picked up a lower back injury after just recovering from his torn hamstring. However, once he recovered, it was back to square to the hard work for the sprinter as he looked to increase his overall strength – which was not where it needed to be.
The 21-year-old was part of Team South Africa at the 2014 Commonwealth Games which was held in Glasgow and stated the event opened his eyes to what it takes to compete at the highest level.
“The Commonwealth Games was a major stepping stone for me to become accustomed to running against the world’s best at international events. I am looking to this year as I want to compete in more international competitions.
“The plan is to head to Europe in the middle of the year but that is yet to be confirmed. Ideally, I would like to participate in the Diamond League but there’s also World League events and other minor meetings I would like to run in,” he added.
Simbine stated that participating in previous Varsity Athletics events has opened up doors for him to run at a higher level and against the best the country has to offer.
“There is an awesome vibe at the Varsity Athletics meeting. The hype and vibe is unique and gives you that extra boost to give it your all. I am really looking forward to the travelling – I love travelling – and renewing the friendships I made at the previous event,” he stated.
