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SA sprint sensation Bayanda Walaza spoke confidently about targeting another milestone in the 100m after arriving in Dusseldorf, Germany for his first ever FISU World University Games.
With Team SA struggling for medals, the 19-year-old is one of the athletes the federation has pinned their hopes on for a podium finish along with fellow Olympian and archer Wian Roux.
The past few months have been a whirlwind for Walaza since winning silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics in the 4x100m relay.
Speaking to SABC Sport shortly after touching down Walaza made it clear he was in Europe to add to his medal haul.
"This is my first varsity games experience, it looks nice, it looks perfect, I can see people that are here are happy to be here. I'll be participating in the 100m and also relay,” Walaza said.
“For now, I came here with the goal of winning, came here and represent my country and make sure that my country comes first. Making sure that our country actually shows amongst all these countries because I believe that South Africa is one of the best countries but they're not noticing it.
“I know that as we are here as the team, when I look at the team, I can see that we're actually gonna make something great here, we're actually gonna show how great South Africa is and my goal is to make sure that I leave here with great results."
Walaza admits his performance in France as well as other meets that followed has made him a household name, but he continues to respect his competitors.
"I'll say I don't underestimate any competition. In this sport, I've seen that there's no big guy here, you can be taken off any day. So each and every competition that I go to I bring my A-game, I make sure that I'm focused, I make sure that I don't lose it,” he added.
“It is great coming here as an Olympian because I already see that people are already noticing me, it gives that vibe of, okay, people they see me, they greet me, making friendship wise but I am not underestimating this competition.
“I took the whole week preparing for this competition, making sure that I don't lose it, making sure that I bring my A-game. So, I'll say I'm excited to be here and I'll be as competitive as possible."
