South African Manyonga soars to World Junior Gold in Moncton

South Africa's Luvo Mayonga won the Long Jump Gold medal with his very last effort in 7.99 metres at the IAAF World Junior Championships in Moncton, Canada yesterday.

Eusebio Cáraces of Spain settled for Silver medal with 7.90 metres and Taylor Stewart of Canada snatched the Bronze medal with his last attempt of 7.63 metres.

The South African afterwards dedicated his gold medal to fellow teammate Caster Semenya’s return to international athletics.

Manyonga came into the competition as favourite with a personal and season's best of 8.19m, but almost missed out on making the Final when after a no jump, he cleared a miserable 6.28m before unleashing the furthest leap of the night with his last attempt 7.76m in qualifying on Tuesday.

"The competition was not bad, but the wind was too much for me, and the knee was a problem. The injury was two weeks ago in Finland. When I put ice on it, it feels better," said Manyonga.

"I was feeling good because I was looking for a gold medal and on the last jump, I did my best. I've jumped over 8 metres a few times. But not with wind like this. I think Commonwealth is next."

About having the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, He said it felt very good. "I did watch the first matches at home, but on the 22nd, I had to go to Finland."

On hearing the vuvuzelas in the Moncton stadium, Manyonga said: "That reminds me of back home in South Africa, where people are crazy about the vuvuzela.

"I thought, 'That's the sound that says a South African has won.' It made me feel good." He added.

Selected Results

Long Jump Men Final

5000m Women Final