South Africa is brimming with pride as Phatutshedzo “Shaun” Maswanganyi, the phenomenal young sprinter, secured his place to represent the nation at the 2024 Olympics. Shaun’s recent historic achievement of running the second-fastest South African 100m time in history, clocking an impressive 9.91 seconds, has propelled him onto the global stage.
The send-off and celebration event held in Sandton Gauteng on Friday, 30 June 2023 for Shaun showcased the incredible journey of this exceptional athlete. Amidst the jubilant atmosphere, Shaun graciously shared his feelings about the upcoming Olympics. “It’s a privilege in its own right. I see it as a badge of honour to just put my country’s colours on and just be on the global stage,” Shaun expressed with gratitude. “But at the same time, it’s a sense of responsibility and accountability, and understand that a lot of people are behind me and a lot of people are supporting me. So I always want to perform and make them proud.”
Hailing from the vibrant township of Soweto, Shaun’s journey from humble beginnings to the global athletics stage is a testament to his unwavering dedication and support he has received. Currently a student at the University of Houston in the USA, Shaun’s academic scholarship provided him with the opportunity to pursue his studies in Financial Economics while simultaneously competing as a student-athlete. This unique blend of academic and athletic pursuits has shaped him into the well-rounded individual he is today.
Shaun’s journey to his current milestone has been marked by dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As he prepares for the Olympics, Shaun remains focused on his goals. When asked about his expectations and plans for the upcoming Games, he explained, “My coach and I we’re focusing on trying to make the finals, and then from there, we can go to the next level because we all have milestones leading up to these competitions. Obviously, Tokyo was good to us. We want Paris to be even greater to us.”
Munya Maraire, the CEO of World Wide Scholarships, which recently signed Shaun, commended the young athlete’s remarkable talent and drive. “Sean embodies the exact goal of what it looks like to be a successful student-athlete, someone who’s gone through the university system and then from the university system will have, for me, a very colourful professional career,” Munya shared with pride.
Shaun’s road to success has not been without its share of difficulties. Over the past two years, he has faced unimaginable loss, tragically losing both his brother and grandmother while he was in the United States. The challenges he has endured have only fuelled his determination to succeed and make his loved ones proud.
Shaun Maswanganyi’s remarkable achievement and upcoming Olympic debut have captivated the nation. The event served as a heartfelt send-off, with attendees expressing their unwavering support and excitement for his journey ahead. Shaun’s dedication, coupled with the guidance of his coach, the American legendary Carl Lewis and unwavering support of his loved ones, has set the stage for an unforgettable performance in the Olympics next year and his upcoming athletic competitions.
Shaun’s journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring young athletes across the nation. He offered valuable advice to those following in his footsteps, urging them to work hard, stay diligent, and persevere through the challenges they may encounter. “Understand that in order for you to be really successful, you need to be able to sacrifice. Your whole life is really about prioritizing if you’re on a successful career,” Shaun emphasized.
Munya also added that young athletes should persevere through struggles and setbacks towards their goals as its part of the territory towards greatness. Adding that, “Shaun is a great example of perseverance, from the beginning to where he is now.”
As South Africa eagerly awaits the moment when Shaun steps onto the Olympic stage, he serves as a shining example of what can be accomplished through unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of greatness. With his name etched in the annals of South African athletics history, Shaun Maswanganyi is poised to make a profound impact at the 2024 Olympics, inspiring a new generation of athletes and solidifying his place among the country’s athletic legends.
