Luvo Manyonga – SA long jump still alive and kicking

Once a powerhouse discipline for Team SA, long jump delivered medals on the global stage through stars like Manyonga, Ruswahl Samaai and Zack Visser. 

But in recent years, the sparkle has dimmed — and critics have been quick to write it off.

Manyonga, however, believes the dip is temporary. Reflecting on the golden moment at the 2017 World Athletics Championships, where he struck gold and Samaai claimed bronze, he says the blueprint for success is still there — it just needs proper support and facilities to reignite.

"It's just what people are saying; there is always something to say. They can say long jump is dead, but I don't think it is dead. It's just sleeping at the moment. The season is just starting for the country, but there are a lot of upcoming kids jumping over 7.5, so it shows us that South Africa's long jump is still alive. It 's just that a lot of us have the opportunity to access the best facilities. This sport that we are doing needs financing to achieve those big jumps , but we are getting there slowly but surely," said Manyonga

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The Olympic silver medallist is urging doubters to witness the next wave of talent firsthand at the national senior championships in Stellenbosch from 16–18 April.

He points to a new generation ready to rise — including Jovan van Vuuren and US-based prospect Temoso Masikane — alongside his own comeback as proof that the event is far from finished.

The former national champion is embracing a fresh chapter, crediting his new support structure for putting him back on track. 

Under the guidance of manager Munya Maraire and coach Herman Venske, Manyonga is rebuilding after serving a four-year ban that ended in December 2024.

He believes this new team is providing the stability he needs to compete at the highest level again.

At 35, Manyonga remains unfazed by questions over his age, insisting his belief and physical condition are as strong as ever.