Red-hot Makwala guns for Commonwealth glory

Mqondisi Dube | Wednesday July 9, 2014 17:41

 

Africa’s 400m record holder, Isaac Makwala who is enjoying the best time of his career, has targeted a podium finish at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games which start on July 23.

The athlete who has lived in the shadows of former world 400m champion, Amantle Montsho and lately, Olympic 800m silver medalist, Nijel Amos has been in devastating form. Over the weekend, he produced a stunning burst of speed in Switzerland to smash two records in 90 minutes. Makwala now holds all national records in the three sprint distances.

“I am targeting a top three finish, any medal (at the Commonwealth Games) will be welcome,” Makwala told Mmegi Sport yesterday from Germany.

He stated that he is in prime condition after his speed propelled him to a new African 400m mark of 44:01. He beat the previous best of 44:10 set in 2006.  Makwala’s mark becomes the 11th all time best in the world. “I am in a good condition.

This is the fastest time ever in Africa so that is my best achievement in my career,” he said. Compatriot, Pako Seribe finished second in the 400m in 45.21, just 0.17 away from the personal best he set early this year.

Soon after he broke the African 400m record, Makwala was back on track to set a new mark in the 200m. The 27-year-old broke the national record in the race, crossing the line in 19.96. The performance takes him to third on the African all-time list. According to IAAF, if Makwala, defends his African 400m title, he will earn a team spot for the IAAF Continental Cup in Marrakech, Morocco later this year.

 Makwala’s latest exploits, are sufficient proof he is ready for the big prizes in world athletics. He has often faltered in big races but has responded superbly in 2014, a year which has seen him make his debut in the lucrative Diamond League. His next race is in the Diamond League in Glasgow on Saturday as his Commonwealth Games preparations reach the last leg.

Botswana will send 19 athletes to the Games with a target of seven medals. The country’s hopes are high with Amos having settled well in the Diamond League while Montsho, although showing signs of fatigue is a safe medal bet.