By Razeen Gutta
All eyes will be on Tatjana Smith (née Schoenmaker) and Jordy Smith as South Africa’s hope for multiple medals on the Paris Olympic stage.
The Games begin on Friday; and while Team SA are not the favourites to break any records for medals, there is certainly a positive feel around the possibility of a few podium finishes.
On the swimming front, Tatjana will lead the way for South Africa.
The former world record-holder recorded the third fastest time in history in the 200 metre breaststroke at the national championships in Gqeberha this year; and her two medals in Tokyo three years ago means she is a sure favourite to win big again.
After missing out on the Tokyo Games, Jordy will have his sights set on making his mark with the surfboard in Paris.
The 36-year-old who hails from Durban is currently ranked seventh in the annual World Surf League, where he has finished in the top five on six occasions in his career.
In Athletics, Wayde van Niekerk and Akani Simbine are favourites to make magic happen for Team SA, with Simbine finishing in the top five in the 100 metre final at both of the last two Games.
Ranked second in the world this year, Alan Hatherly is one to watch in the men’s cross-country mountain bike race. He has climbed the ranks since his eighth place finish in Tokyo and will almost certainly challenge for a medal.
Pictured above: Tatjana Smith.
Source: @gsport4girls
