Njabulo Mbatha Determined To Defend His 400m Hurdles Title At Sa Junior Champs

Njabulo Mbatha is not just competing, he is racing to win.

The 17-year-old Tuks athlete is set to defend his 400m hurdles title at the South African Junior Championships in Cape Town, and his mindset is clear, second place is not an option.

'I am a fierce competitor by nature. Even playing games with friends, I want to be the best,' said Mbatha.

His competitive fire has already set him apart as one of the brightest young talents in South African athletics .

Last year, he made history at the South African Senior Athletics Championships in Pietermaritzburg, becoming the youngest athlete to medal in a senior 400m hurdles final. His time of 49.57 seconds was the second-fastest in the world for a U18 athlete in 2024.