Wily Makwala cannot be discounted

Makwala, despite holding all national sprint records, has failed to convert that dominance on the global stage. He has already conquered Africa, being a former 400m champion, Makwala turns 30, a day before Botswana’s Independence, and will want to leave a mark in Rio unsure if he will be on the plane to Tokyo in four years time.  Makwala has had a poor year by his standards, although he is third on the Diamond League standings.

He did not have a good time at the Africa Senior Championships in Durban last month, finishing a disappointing fourth behind juniors, Baboloki Thebe and Karabo Sibanda. Makwala does not feature in the year’s fastest 10 times.  His usual opponents, LaShawn Merritt, Africa record holder Wayde Van Niekerk, Kirani James and surprise package, Thebe stand between Makwala and a podium finish.