Benjamin Richardson upsets his idol Wayde Van Niekerk to qualify for the Olympics

The 20-year-old Richardson recorded a time of 20.15 seconds, surpassing 400m world record holder Van Niekerk, who finished second in a time of 20.31 seconds.

Former national champion Sinesipho Dambile took the bronze with a time of 20.37 seconds. Richardson, who trains under Paul Gorries at the University of North West in Potchefstroom, also qualified for the Paris Olympics later this year by beating the 20.30-second Olympic qualifying standard. 

"I remember the day exactly 2021 19th April that we did the seniors at TUKS and he beat me and I came second I think and it shows that through time things can change. Three years later, I'm now first and now I'm happy and grateful for everything that happened, the trials and tribulations," Richardson said.

The victory was double joy for Richardson as he defeated his idol and secured his spot at the Olympics.

He is now setting his sights on qualifying for the 100m events.

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"No, I could have done it here but you know sub20 that's always [hard] and hopefully at some point. I've now done the 200[km], I've qualified for the 200, hopefully, at some point I'll also qualify for the 100m event," he added.

The prospects for South African athletes are promising, highlighted by the achievements of young talents like Richardson, who clinched the 200m senior title, and Bayanda Walaza and Bradley Nkoana, who secured silver and bronze respectively in the senior 100m final – all before turning 20.