Bayanda Walaza determined to boost Team SA’s relay team performance in China

Originally slated to be a reserve, Walaza seized his opportunity when injuries sidelined Sinesipho Dambile and Benjamin Richardson, ultimately helping his team secure a silver medal and making history as South Africa’s youngest athlete to earn an Olympic medal.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Walaza says he is determined to play a key role in the team’s success when they compete in Guangzhou this weekend.

"Surely, I bring growth, I think I've grown from last year and also I'll say I also bring fighting spiriting you know and also bring trustworthiness. I'll be trustworthy this time, I won't hesitate, I won't be scared like I was last year and I am stronger than I was last year,” Walaza said.

“I promise that I will bring greatness to the team. I'll bring my everything, I bring my A-game to this and also bring respect, showing respect to each and every country, we will be competing against."

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The Supply Chain Management student at Tshwane University of Technology is humbled by how much the country now depends on him—second only to team captain Akani Simbine—after serving merely as a reserve last year.

His status has shifted significantly, and he is now viewed as a key member of the squad.

"Surely, now it feels much more heavier than the last time because last time I didn't think about it a lot but now, because I know what's gonna happen there, it gives me that thing of preparing now before even getting there,” he added.

“Also, it gives me motivation of where I am now from last year. Last year, I was not trusted but now you are the first person they trust. It makes me happy, it makes me feel glorified and yeah. I just can't wait to be participating and putting the team on the A-game because I'm sure I'll beat everyone in the start."