ASA Grand Prix 2 in Joburg: Six Athletes to Watch, Where to Watch, How to Purchase Tickets

The second leg of the Athletics South Africa (ASA) Grand Prix series will take place at UJ Stadium in Johannesburg on Wednesday, featuring an exciting array of talent. Strong fields have been unveiled, and several athletes are set to light up the track. Here’s a closer look at six key athletes to watch during this thrilling event.

Bayanda Walaza – 200m

The 19-year-old world junior champion, Bayanda Walaza, is in sensational form. After setting a national U20 100m record of 9.99 seconds at the Athletics Gauteng North provincial championships, Walaza is a contender to watch. With a 200m personal best of 20.34, the prodigy will be aiming to break new ground, although he faces stiff competition, including former World Championships finalist, Luxolo Adams.

Ferdinand Omanyala – 100m

Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala, the African record holder, was unexpectedly defeated at the opening Grand Prix leg in Pretoria, finishing third behind Karabo Letebele and Emile Erasmus. Omanyala will be looking to bounce back strongly in Johannesburg, with stiff competition from the likes of Olympic relay medallist Bradley Nkoana, former Olympian Gift Leotlela, and in-form sprinter Sinesipho Dambile.

Viwe Jingqi – 100m

South Africa’s rising star, Viwe Jingqi, will be the one to beat in the women’s 100m. As the national champion and in her first senior season, Jingqi is eager to make a statement. Her toughest challenge will likely come from experienced sprinter, Tamzin Thomas, who will be aiming to take the win in this fast-paced event.

Lythe Pillay – 400m

Olympic semifinalist Lythe Pillay has shown consistent improvement and is poised to take the mantle from world record holder Wayde van Niekerk as South Africa’s top 400m runner. With the 2025 season underway, Pillay will be aiming to open his season with a strong performance, though he faces competition from world junior champion Udeme Okon, who will be looking to make an impact.

Marione Fourie – 100m Hurdles

After withdrawing from the World Indoor Championships in China due to the sudden passing of her coach, Jaun Strydom, Marione Fourie will compete in Johannesburg. Having already shown excellent form this year with a 12.77-second performance at the Grand Prix in Pretoria, Fourie will be a strong favourite to claim victory, though she could face a tough challenge from emerging junior talent Tumi Ramokgopa.

Tshepo Tshite – 800m

Tshepo Tshite, a former 800m specialist, has enjoyed notable success in the 1500m in recent years. Despite his focus on longer distances, Tshite will return to the 800m for this event, looking to prove that his speed over the two-lap race remains sharp. He will face tough competition from Ketlhobogile Haingura and Tumo Nkape of Botswana, both of whom will be looking to secure a top spot.

Event Information

The ASA Grand Prix 2 will be broadcast live on SuperSport Variety 4 (channel 209) from 6pm to 8pm. The pre-programme at UJ Stadium begins at 1.30pm, with the main programme starting at 5.15pm.

In an effort to encourage attendance, scholars with their varsity cards and students in uniform will enjoy free entry to the event.

Event Details:

ASA Grand Prix Ticket Purchase:

Tickets for the ASA Grand Prix 2 can be purchased through Webtickets. For the previous ASA Grand Prix 1 event, ticket prices ranged from R70 to R150. While specific pricing for the upcoming event may vary, it’s advisable to check the Webtickets website closer to the event date for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Contact Information:

For more details or inquiries, you can contact the ASA office via email at MagogodelT@athleticssa.co.za.

The excitement is building as these top athletes prepare to compete, and the track at UJ Stadium is set to provide a thrilling showcase of South African and international athletics talent.

Related article: U20 World Championship: New Sprint Sensation Bayanda Walaza Claims Gold in 100m