Tag: Maxime Chaumeton

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Adriaan Wildschutt Smashes SA Half Marathon Record on Debut

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Adriaan Wildschutt Smashes SA Half Marathon Record on Debut
By Adnaan Mohamed

Adriaan Wildschutt has done it again. The South African road running sensation added another national record to his growing collection on Sunday, turning heads in Spain with a breathtaking run at the Valencia Half Marathon.

In his first-ever outing over 21 kilometres, the 27-year-old from Ceres clocked 59 minutes and 13 seconds, slicing 23 seconds off Stephen Mokoka’s previous South African record of 59:36, set in 2020.

Wildschutt’s performance placed him fifth overall in a fiercely competitive race won by Ethiopian star Yomif Kejelcha in 58:02.

Adriaan Wildschutt trains hard on the track Photo: Facebook

His record run comes just weeks after Maxime Chaumeton (26:55) broke Wildschutt’s SA 10km record (27:28) set earlier this year at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha 10K, marking a golden period for South African distance running.

The Olympic finalist, who represented South Africa in the Paris 2024 Games in the 10 000m, said he thrives on setting ambitious goals and putting them in plain sight.

“So many people have been asking me why I put my goals out there for everyone to see and potentially criticize,” Wildschutt explained in a post on social media.

“My response is simple … I like challenging myself, and I’m not scared to fail. I feel like I thrive under pressure, even if it’s pressure I put on myself. In the end, I’m doing this for myself and no one else.”

Wildschutt represents Western Province Athletics (WPA) when he competes in South Africa. He is however based in the USA.

Adriaan Wildschutt in action in the colours of Western Province Athletics (WPA) Photo: Supplied

After completing his collegiate career and earning his MBA from Florida State, Wildschutt moved to Arizona and joined the HOKA NAZ Elite professional running squad. 

Running in the HOKA Northern Arizona Elite colours, Wildschutt battled gusty winds over the final stretch but refused to ease up.

“It was quite windy the last 8k, and I know I can go even faster,” he said.

“For now, I’m very grateful to God and everyone who’s always supporting me.”

The Valencia performance marks Wildschutt’s fourth South African record, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most versatile and consistent distance runners. He already owns national bests over 3 000m (7:32.99), 5 000m (12:55.02), and 10 000m (26:50.64). These achievements speak to years of relentless training and discipline.

WPA President Farouk Meyer praised the athlete’s record-breaking form, noting that his path to road-running success was forged on the track.

“Adriaan once again proved that if elite athletes want to perform on the road, they need to build their speed on the track,” said Meyer.

“He’s a perfect example of this philosophy. WPA is extremely proud of him.”

Wildschutt’s next stop is Tallahassee, Florida, where he will lead the South African senior men’s team at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships on 10 January 2026.

From Ceres to the world stage, Wildschutt continues to show that South African distance running is alive and kicking. And, in his case, sprinting into fresh territory with every stride.

Chaumeton Smashes SA 10km Record with Historic Sub-27 Run

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Chaumeton Smashes SA 10km Record with Historic Sub-27 Run
By Adnaan Mohamed

South African distance running entered a new era on Sunday morning as Maxime Chaumeton shattered the national 10km record at the tRUNsylvania International 10K in Brașov, Romania, clocking a blistering 26:55 to become the first South African in history to dip under the 27-minute barrier.

The 23-year-old speedster produced a performance of rare quality, storming to second place in a world-class field. In doing so, Chaumeton wiped 33 seconds off the previous South African record of 27:28, set by Adrian Wildschutt in Gqeberha earlier this year.

Chaumeton’s run not only redefined the limits of South African road racing but also signaled his arrival among the world’s elite. Breaking the 27-minute barrier is a milestone reserved for the sport’s very best, and his achievement is likely to reverberate through the athletics community.

“I knew I was in good shape, but to run under 27 minutes. It’s something I’ve always dreamed of,” said a visibly elated Chaumeton at the finish.

“To be part of South African running history is an incredible feeling.”

Wildschutt, who has been a trailblazer for South African distance running in recent seasons, graciously acknowledged the record-breaking performance.

“Records are meant to be broken, and Maxime has raised the bar. It’s fantastic to see South African athletes pushing each other to world-class levels,” he said.

Chaumeton’s breakthrough adds fresh fire to an already exciting rivalry between him and Wildschutt, with both athletes driving South African distance running into unprecedented territory.

With global competitions looming, the prospect of two sub-27 men in the green and gold is a tantalising one for the nation’s medal hopes.

For now, Chaumeton stands atop the record books, his name etched in history as the first South African to run 10 kilometres in in under 27 minutes and change, a landmark moment that will inspire a generation.

SEE FULL 10K RACE RESULTS HERE