South African para-athletics sensation Puseletso Mabote has once again rewritten the history books, delivered a breathtaking performance at the Toyota SASAPD National Championships.
Competing at the Coetzenburg Stadium on April 1, 2026, the 20-year-old sprinter set a blistering new World Record in the menโs T63 400m.
Mabote crossed the finish line in a remarkable 60.74 seconds, shaving time off the previous global standard.
The performance, which is currently awaiting official ratification, further cements his status as one of the most dominant forces in local para-athletics.
A Masterclass in Versatility
The 400m victory was the crown jewel of a busy week for the Stellenbosch University student.
In addition to his record-breaking long-distance sprint, Mabote displayed his trademark explosive speed in the T63 100m, clocking a solid 12.23 seconds.
While Mabote rose to international prominence after winning gold at the 2025 World Championships in New Delhi, his recent form suggests he is reaching a new peak.
He now holds world records in both the 200m and 400m T63 categories, alongside several African records in the long jump.
Bittersweet Success
Despite the euphoria of a world record on home soil, the achievement carried a note of frustration for the young star. Speaking after the race, Mabote expressed disappointment that the 400m T63 event has been excluded from the upcoming Commonwealth Games program.
“Itโs a bittersweet feeling,” Mabote noted. “You work so hard to push the boundaries of whatโs possible in an event, only to find out you won’t have the stage to represent your country in it at the next major games.”
The setback has not dampened Maboteโs long-term ambitions.
Currently balancing the rigors of a Business Management degree with elite-level training, the “Maties” athlete is shifting his focus toward the European Grand Prix circuit scheduled for later this year.
With his eyes firmly set on the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics, Mabote remains the man to beat.
If his performance in Stellenbosch is any indication, the world hasn’t seen the last of his record-breaking ways.
