Viwe Jingqi excited about SA women's 4x100m relay team

The 21-year-old speedster, coached by Paul Gorries in Potchefstroom, is preparing for a demanding but thrilling season that also includes the Commonwealth Games.

“I am so excited and cannot wait for the World Relays and the Commonwealth Games. Competing against athletes from Britain and Jamaica will push us to run even faster,” said the Eastern Cape-born sprinter.

For Jingqi, 2026 represents more than just another competitive season — it marks a long-awaited comeback after several years disrupted by injury setbacks.

“This is my comeback year after struggling with injuries. I’m hungry to prove myself again,” she added.

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However, the talented sprinter admits that attempting the demanding 100m and 200m double at the Commonwealth Games could test her limits.

“It’s never easy doing the double because it takes a lot out of your body. But if it’s possible and my coach agrees, I’m willing to take on the challenge,” said Jingqi, who currently rates her readiness for the season at 80%.

Having previously shone in junior national relay teams, Jingqi believes her elevation to the senior women’s squad signals a new chapter in her career. With Athletics South Africa confirming the women’s 4x100m relay team, she says the intensity and expectations at senior level are far greater.

“It’s very exciting, but senior athletics is completely different from juniors. The competition is tougher and everyone is proudly representing their countries at a much higher level,” she explained.

“As you grow older, representing your country means more. Everyone selected for the World Relays wants it badly, and we are all determined to give our best.”

Jingqi believes South African women’s sprinting is entering a powerful new era.

“This is a new dawn for female sprinters in South Africa. We are hungry for success, and we want to achieve great things for ourselves and for the country,” she concluded.