20-year-old SA sprinter breaks National 200m record in USA!

South Africa’s sprint sensation, Shaun Maswanganyi, has done it again! The 20-year-old shattered the South African 200m short track record at an indoor meet in Texas. His blistering time of 20.41 seconds eclipses the previous record of 20.45, held by Ncincilili Titi since 2018.

Maswanganyi’s Track Record of Excellence

This record-breaking performance is just the latest in a string of triumphs for Maswanganyi. He’s an Olympic 100m and 200m semi-finalist, was named American Conference Freshman of the Year, and boasts 4 x All-America Honors.

Additionally, he ranks No.7 & 8 on the South African All-Time lists for both the 100m and 200m and holds the No.2 South African All-Time spot in the 60m.

Maswanganyi didn’t just dominate the 200m – he also nabbed a silver medal in the 60m race. The Soweto-born athlete, who honed his skills at St Alban’s College in Pretoria, currently excels as a student-athlete at the University of Houston.

Maswanganyi: A Humble Champion

“Breaking records isn’t just about me,” Maswanganyi emphasized. “It’s a testament to the incredible spirit and support that drives South African athletes around the world. Together, we inspire the next generation to strive for greatness.”

A Legacy of Record-Breakers

Last year, Maswanganyi showcased his electrifying speed with a personal best of 9.91 seconds in the 100m. This earned him a bronze medal at the US NCAA Outdoor Championships and propelled him past the times of two former world record-holders, Carl Lewis and Leroy Burrell.

Maswanganyi’s 9.91 sprint also established a new University of Houston record. He surpassed both Cameron Burrell’s 9.93 in 2017 and his father Leroy’s 9.94 from 1990. Lewis recorded a college best of 10.0 in 1981.

Interestingly, Maswanganyi has the unique opportunity to train under both legends at Houston. Leroy Burrell, whose 100m world record once stood at 9.85, previously headed the university’s athletic program. Lewis, with a personal best of 9.86, is now the head coach.

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