Athletes to kick off 2025 season at Simbine Curro Classic Shootout
04 February 2025Curro athletes are set to shine at the highly anticipated Simbine Curro Classic Shootout, taking place at Pilditch Stadium in Pretoria on Saturday, 8 February. The event, in its 13th edition, has become a prestigious platform for early-season athletics, attracting top national and international stars.
Bayanda Walaza ready to sprint into the season
Curro Hazeldean’s Bayanda Walaza will make his debut in the men’s 60m race as he opens his 2025 season. Bayanda is coming off a stellar 2024, where he captured double gold in the 100m and 200m sprints at the World Athletics U20 Championships. He also played a key role in South Africa's 4x100m relay team that secured a silver medal at the Paris Olympics.
All eyes will be on Bayanda as he competes in his final U20 season, with fans eager to see him in action at one of the country’s most exciting athletics events.
Udeme Okon takes on the 300m challenge
Curro Academy Pretoria’s Udeme Okon, a rising star in South African athletics, will compete in the men’s 300m. Udeme made headlines at the World U20 Championships in Lima last year, where he earned 400m gold and led the South African 4x400m relay team to silver. Udeme, who is known for his speed and resilience, and faces strong competition from seasoned athletes such as Sinesipho Dambile and Emile Erasmus.
More action-packed races
Over the 150m distance, former national champion Luxolo Adams leads the men’s race, while Shirley Nekhubui and Kayla la Grange will go head-to-head in the women’s event. Shirley, who excelled at both the African Championships and the national 200m finals, will be aiming for another strong performance. Kayla, a top performer at last year’s SA U23 Championships, is set to push her limits on the track.
The men’s 600m race will feature U23 champion Renier de Villiers, who aims to improve on his fourth-place finish from last season.
Broadcast and legacy
The Simbine Curro Classic Shootout has a reputation for producing record-breaking performances, with last year’s event seeing world and national bests tumble. This year’s edition promises another electrifying display of talent.
The event will be broadcast live on Super Schools, allowing athletics fans across the country to witness these thrilling performances as Curro learners and other top athletes compete for early-season honours.