South Africa’s Young Athletes Dominate AUSC Region 5 Youth Games in Namibia

South Africa’s rising sports stars delivered a commanding performance at the 11th African Union Sport Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games, which concluded on Sunday, 13 July in Namibia. Competing across Windhoek and Swakopmund, Team South Africa emerged as the overall winners, topping the medals table and reaffirming the nation’s status as a regional sporting powerhouse.

With a delegation of 198 athletes across 13 sporting codes, Team SA improved significantly on their 2022 performance in Malawi, securing an impressive 144 medals, including 65 golds. But beyond the numbers, the Games served a more profound purpose: nurturing the next generation of elite South African athletes.

For many participants, this was their first taste of international competition, an essential stepping stone in their athletic development. Over the years, the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games have proven to be a springboard for some of South Africa’s top athletes, marking the beginning of their global careers.

SASCOC President Barry Hendricks praised the team’s performance, stating:

“Our young athletes didn’t just win medals, they embodied the character, discipline and excellence that define South African sport. This experience will prepare them for future World Championships, Olympic and Paralympic Games. This is where champions are forged.”

SASCOC CEO Nozipho Jafta echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of the Games as a development and benchmarking platform:

“It’s heartwarming to see such strong results against nine competing nations. Our National Federations are clearly doing the groundwork needed to identify and support young talent. These are tomorrow’s stars, and our future is in good hands.”

Among the standout performers was 17-year-old Chemene Mentz, who earned two gold medals on the track. Reflecting on the experience, she said:

“It’s been incredible to represent Team SA on the international stage. These Games have given me the confidence I need heading into the World Junior Athletics Championships and Youth Olympics next year.”

Looking ahead, SASCOC remains focused on youth development through key international events. These include the African Youth Games in Angola (December 2025), the next Region 5 Youth Games in Mozambique (2026), and the historic Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal (October 2026), the first Olympic Games ever to be hosted on African soil.

South Africa’s future in sport looks brighter than ever.

InboundSA