South African athletes inspire journey to #Paris2024

Source: © Athletics Africa Athletics Africa Akani Simbine is one of six South African athletes featured in the Adidas collection. Road to Paris<.i> docuserie

The six-part series will offer an exclusive look into their lives as they prepare for the 2024 Paris Olympics in July, and celebrate this diverse group of athletes, each with a unique story of dedication, perseverance and triumph.

Featured athletes

Jo-Ané van Dyk – Athletics (Speer)

Jo-Ané (26 years old) has had a journey full of resilience and determination, which shows her unwavering dedication to excel in her sport.

Akani Simbine – Athletics (100m & 4 x 100m relay)

The story of 30-year-old Akani, one of the fastest sprinters in the world, is a testament to the power of speed, precision and hard work.

Onthatile “Thati” Zulu Hockey

Thati’s (24 years old) story highlights her passion for hockey and her drive to represent her country worldwide.

Boipelo Awuah – Skateboarding

Boipelo is the youngest of the group at 19. His story is filled with youthful energy and the will to push boundaries in skateboarding.

Ryan Mphahlele – Athletics (1500m)

Ryan, 25, is focused on his skills as a middle-distance runner and his tireless quest for Olympic glory.

Mhlengi Gwala – Triathlete

Mhlengi’s (23 years old) inspiring story of how he overcame a tragic accident to compete at the highest level shows the true spirit of a Paralympic athlete.

You have this

Adidas brings these stories to life so fans and sports enthusiasts around the world better understand what it takes to participate in the Olympic Games.

The series delves into the rigorous training regimes, personal challenges, and emotional highs and lows that define the athletes’ journeys. The film reminds athletes, whether they’re competing as elite athletes or at the grassroots level, to reframe pressure and focus on the positive rallying cry You have this as they step onto the world’s biggest stage.

One collection that reflects the fire of the athletes

“We are excited to share ‘Road to Paris’ with the world,” said Kate Woods, senior brand director at adidas South Africa.

“This docuseries not only celebrates the incredible talents of these athletes, but also highlights their personal stories. We hope they will inspire and motivate viewers to pursue their dreams with the same passion and determination.”

In honor of the Olympic Games, Adidas presents a range of footwear and apparel that radiates the passion that lives inside every athlete on the global sporting stage.

The enthusiasm that drives these iconic athletes is reflected in the sole of the shoe, which comes in a striking orange colourway and is applied to a wide range of multi-sport products, covering 41 sports and nine sponsored countries, united in one collection.