Abeokuta 2025: South Africa Set Sights On Retaining CAA U-18/U-20 Title

Abeokuta 2025: South Africa Set Sights On Retaining CAA U-18/U-20 Title

Sampson Adedeji

Defending champions South Africa have reaffirmed their ambition to dominate once again at the 2025 CAA U-18/U-20 Athletics Championships set to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Since the inaugural edition of the championships in Cote d’Ivoire in 2019, South Africa has consistently outpaced rivals like Nigeria and Kenya in both age categories. However, both Nigeria and Kenya are confident of staging a strong comeback on home soil this time around.

Speaking ahead of the championships, Athletics South Africa (ASA) media consultant Sifiso Cele emphasized the team’s seriousness:

“The South African delegation consists of 70 athletes, which reflects how committed we are to these championships, just like every other edition before this. The message to every athlete is simple—bring the African title home.”

Cele added that while South Africa enters the competition with confidence, they are fully aware of the level of competition:

“To be crowned African champions, we must prove ourselves against the very best on the continent. No opponent will be taken lightly; we approach each event and lineup with equal seriousness.”

He acknowledged that Nigeria, Kenya, and Ethiopia remain formidable contenders, but stressed that South Africa is also mindful of threats from other well-prepared countries.

“Our athletes are hungry for success. Some are already world champions or have achieved international recognition. But the South African approach is grounded in respect for the competition and every athlete so we don’t drop our guard.”

Looking ahead, Cele said the 2025 event promises to be a thrilling showcase of emerging talent, many of whom could feature prominently at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

“These championships will be explosive, exciting, and record-breaking. And while we certainly hope to see South Africans among the top achievers, we’re also looking forward to a high-quality, unforgettable event.”