Makwala misses out in Beijing
Spira Tlhankane | Thursday August 27, 2015 18:00
Makwala held the nation’s hope for a medal, but now that burden shifts to the 4x400m team and high jumper, Kabelo Kgosiemang.
Makwala produced a wonderful performance in the semi-final earlier this week, raising hopes of a podium finish. Going into the race, he had the fastest time this season and the best time at this year’s championships. South African ace, Wayde van Niekerk grabbed the gold medal in 43:48 and broke Makwala’s African record in the process.
He also made history by becoming the first African 400m male runner to win a global title in almost a century. The last person to win a gold medal was also a South African, Bevil Rudd at the 1920 Olympic games in Antwerp.
Makwala has beaten Niekerk before, but the South African is now a precocious young challenger who showed veteran La Shawn Merritt and Kirani James a clean pair of heels.
Facing USA’s Merritt, who took the silver medal and Grenada’s James who bagged the bronze, Makwala appeared as an underdog going into the race.
Compared to Makwala who has never won any global title, both men have Olympic gold medals, Merritt at the 2008 Beijing Games and James from London 2012.
Makwala will now turn his attention to next year’s Olympics in Rio De Janeiro.
He immediately took to his Facebook account to thank fans after the race.
“TEAM BADMAN your support is highly appreciated. #GOD FIRST,” was his short message. Meanwhile, Kgosiemang will be in action in the high jump tomorrow while the relay team takes to the track on Saturday.