THE world record-breaking and gold medal-winning athlete, Mihlali Xotyeni (18), has finally arrived home in Mthatha after making history in Nairobi, Kenya.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Xotyeni and his teammates, Letlhongonolo Moleyane, Benjamin Richardson and Sinesipho Dambile, broke the u\/20 world record with a time of 38.51 seconds in the 4x100m relay, during the recent World Athletics Championships in Kenya.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He arrived at Mthatha Airport at 13:30 on Sunday and was escorted by a motorcade to his home, where he was welcomed by a group of family members and a Christian delegation, including pastors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Xotyeni said winning the world championships\u2019 gold medal opened many doors for him and other athletes from rural areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis medal taught me to keep working hard to win more gold medals,\u201d said Xotyeni.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He described the journey in Nairobi as an unforgettable moment in his career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe race was amazing. Going to the track I was nervous and scared because everyone was watching,\u201d said Xotyeni.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt was amazing how we worked as a team. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cAs much as I was scared, it was exciting,\u201d said the champion after arriving home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The previous world record was 38.62 seconds, held by the USA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Xotyeni\u2019s coach, Martin Lehloenya, from Khanyisa High School Athletic Club, urged other young sportsmen and women to put in their best effort into their respective sports. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI feel so proud. I didn\u2019t know I could produce such an athlete up to international level,\u201d said Lehloenya.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THE world record-breaking and gold medal-winning athlete, Mihlali Xotyeni (18), has finally arrived home in Mthatha after making history in Nairobi, 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