Athletics SA legend declares Team SA ready for Commonwealth Games

The athletics squad consists of 25 athletes and forms part of Team South Africa's 114-member contingent.

The team blends youth with experience and will be led by some of the country's biggest stars, including sprint ace Akani Simbine, Olympic silver medallist Jo-Ane du Plessis in the javelin, world-class 800m runner Prudence Sekgodiso, and the in-form sprinters Gift Leotlela and Sinesipho Dambile.

Sepeng believes the team has prepared well and is confident they will make South Africa proud by contributing to the country's medal tally alongside the swimmers. 

"Preparation has been going well and some of our athletes have been competing internationally and others have overcame injury. It's a small team but I believe they will do well."

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The 1996 Olympic 800m silver medallist says the Commonwealth Games will provide valuable experience for the younger athletes as they build towards the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Sepeng encouraged those making their Commonwealth Games debut to embrace the opportunity, learn from the experience and enjoy competing on one of the biggest international stages. 

"This is the build-up to the 2028 Olympics and World Champs next year, and this is a great opportunity for the athletes to gain experience and learn from it. For me this is a mini-Olympics where athletes can get used to being part of the set-up."

Sepeng says the South African-based athletes will depart for Scotland on Wednesday, where they will join teammates who are already competing in Europe, including Akani Simbine, Zakhithi Nene and Marioné Fourie.

He believes bringing the squad together before the start of the Games will help the team settle quickly and focus on delivering strong performances.

Athletics and swimming are once again expected to lead Team South Africa's medal challenge at the Commonwealth Games.

While Sepeng is careful not to place too much pressure on the athletes, he believes the quality, experience and current form within the squad give South Africa a realistic chance of returning home with several medals.