The pupils of Curro Hazeldean’s school jackets are going to tighten around their chests this week. Why not – how many other schoolchildren can boast that one of their schoolmates will be in action on the athletics track in Paris during the Olympics?

Bayanda Walaza, a Grade 12 learner at Curro Hazeldean, will be part of the South African team to participate in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Walaza, who joined Curro on a scholarship, is the first-ever Olympian to emerge from this school group’s ranks.

At just 18 years old, Walaza has already created global headlines when he earned the title of the fastest teenager in the world, with his stunning time of 10.13-second in a 100m sprint in March this year.

The young sporting star has also triumphed in the South African Junior Championships, claiming titles in both the u20 100m and 200m events and participated in the 23^rd African Senior Championship in Douala, Cameroon in June 2024. Walaza’s consistent presence and qualification for these iconic competitions underscores his exceptional talent and dedication.

Walaza’s distinctive running style with arms swinging wildly has captured the attention and admiration of athletics enthusiasts globally. He will join an impressive team of distinguished athletes that includes the fancied relay squads for the 4x400m and 4x100m races. Among them are notable athletes such as Akani Simbine, Shaun Maswanganyi, Benjamin Richardson, and Bradley Nkoana, all of whom are strong contenders for the podium.

“This is a hugely, historic moment for Curro. Our name is derived from the Latin word meaning “I run”, which perfectly resonates with Walaza’s exceptional journey, and we are incredibly proud of his fantastic accomplishments,” said Curro CEO, Cobus Loubser.

For Walaza, this opportunity holds deep personal significance. Raised by a single mother since his father’s passing when he was just ten years old, his path to success has been defined by resilience and unwavering determination. He personally sought out Curro Hazeldean due to its renowned athletics programme and coaching expertise.

The school continues to wholeheartedly support him, sponsoring his coach to not only accompany him to all events, but also ensure that he continues to excel academically.

Thabo Matebedi, at Curro better known as Coach T, has been instrumental in Walaza’s journey, serving as a mentor and a paternal figure, profoundly influencing his personal and athletic development.

Coach T’s track record includes mentoring eight African champions, making him a sought-after figure among aspiring athletes nationwide. Under his guidance, Walaza has made impressive strides, surpassing his previous personal best times by nearly half a second and joining one of three other school athletes to claim South African titles in various under-18 events.

Following the Olympic Games, Walaza will immediately head to Lima, Peru for the U.20 World Athletics Championships from 27-30 August.

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