Johan Cronje says SA middle-distance running can rise again

The former 800m and 1500m star says the country still has talented athletes, but Athletics South Africa (ASA) needs to strengthen its development structures to bring the event back to its former glory.

Cronje enjoyed a successful international career, winning medals and representing South Africa with distinction.

Although he has retired from elite competition, he remains passionate about middle-distance running and regularly follows local athletes on television.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Cronje said the talent pool is still there, but young athletes need better opportunities and support from an early age.

“We still have pretty decent athletes, but the depth is not what it used to be. There are good runners out there and sometimes it is about getting the right opportunities. It starts at grassroots level.

We need children to fall in love with the sport, and if they enjoy it, they will pursue it and perform better,” he said.

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Cronje added that the current decline should not be seen as permanent.

“Every sport goes through ups and downs. Even in business you get dips, but they do not last forever. I am excited to see what the future will bring.”

The 44-year-old now works in the financial sector, helping clients with investments, and says he is enjoying life after professional athletics.

However, he believes South Africa’s biggest challenge is developing athletes early instead of waiting for talent to emerge on its own.

“We have to develop athletes when they are young. We cannot wait for someone else to develop them first. The focus should be on identifying and nurturing talent at an early age. That is where the real foundation is built,” he explained.

Despite the recent struggles, Cronje is confident that South Africa is not far from producing another international medallist in the 800m, 1500m, 5000m, or 10 000m events.

He pointed to national 1500m champion Tshepo Tshite as one of the athletes keeping the country competitive.

“I think we are close. In the 800m, Tshepo Tshite is doing well, and there are youngsters coming through in the 1500m and 5000m.

Athletes often choose events that feel easier for them, but coaches should encourage them to challenge themselves and move up when they are capable. We have plenty of talent it just needs to be nurtured,” he added.

Cronje also revealed that he is considering a future move into coaching, where he hopes to help develop the next generation of South African middle-distance stars.