Cape Town - Wayde van Niekerk’s strides in sporting history has put him in line to receive one of the most prestigious accolades in global athletics. And his family is behind him all the way.
The Olympic gold medallist was confirmed as one of the top tree finalists in the men’s section of the 2016 International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF).
Van Niekerk made headlines this year when he shattered records in the men’s 400m category at the Rio Olympics in August. He set the new world record at 43.03 seconds.
His mother and biggest supporter, Odessa Swarts, said that it was “about time” the world recognised the sacrifice her son made in achieving sporting excellence: “I have to thank South Africa for their support, this is what motivated Wayde to reach as far as he has.”
Swarts said her son had worked at becoming Olympic-ready for years. “As a mother, you are always proud. I feel that he has a big chance of coming home with the title,” said Swarts.
Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt was announced alongside Van Niekerk as a nominee. Great Britain’s Mo Farah - who charged to a second straight double in the 5 000m and 10 000m events - was named as the third and final nominee in the same category.
Cape Argus
Masele congratulate @WaydeDreamer on being shortlisted for the @iaaforg World Athlete of the Year awards. Good Luck. pic.twitter.com/LH7sXXs80d
— Bloemfontein Celtic (@Bloem_Celtic) November 10, 2016
Mornings family. We have 17 days left to vote. To vote for our champ @WaydeDreamer, please sms SPORTS E to 33121. Blessed day all🙏🙏❤ pic.twitter.com/15oFirQkSc
— Odessa Swarts (@OdessaSwarts) November 10, 2016
#IAAF shortlist for World Athlete Of The Year includes @Mo_Farah, @usainbolt and @WaydeDreamer. Details on @AlJazeera #NewsHour @ProudlySA pic.twitter.com/5ogY46T0rU
Breaking: 🇿🇦 @waydedreamer& 🇪🇹 #almazayana among 6 finalists for 2016 @iaaforg World Athlete of the Year awards. #iaafworldathleteoftheyear👏🏿 pic.twitter.com/FttdvdPvgO
— Athletics Africa (@athleticsafrica) November 9, 2016