‘Usain Bolt stayed with his coach until he retired’ – South African sprint sensation on why he has rejected ‘American dream’…

‘Usain Bolt stayed with his coach until he retired’ – South African sprint sensation on why he has rejected ‘American dream’… read more

South African sprinting sensation, Akani Simbine, recently revealed why he chose to stay loyal to his coach, the renowned coach, and mentor, to build his career, despite offers that aligned with the “American Dream” that many sprinters from around the world covet.

 

Simbine, one of Africa’s fastest men and a regular contender in international sprint competitions, spoke candidly in an exclusive interview about his journey in the world of track and field. Drawing a unique parallel between his career and the legendary Usain Bolt, Simbine shared insights into his steadfast loyalty to his coaching team, which has played a pivotal role in his success.

 

“Usain Bolt always emphasized the importance of his relationship with his coach, Glen Mills, and how that bond contributed to his remarkable achievements,” Simbine said. “He stayed with Glen until the very end of his career, and that inspired me. It is something I value deeply in my own journey.”

 

Simbine, who has clocked impressive times in the 100m and 200m sprints, revealed that he has had his own share of opportunities to work with high-profile American coaches or to consider relocating to the United States to further his career. However, he chose a different path—one that centers on loyalty, trust, and a deep sense of African pride.

 

For many elite athletes, the allure of training in the United States, often seen as the hub of track and field excellence, can be overwhelming. However, Simbine’s decision to stay in South Africa, under the tutelage of his coach, has allowed him to remain grounded in his roots while pushing his athletic boundaries.

 

“I have always believed that you don’t need to go to America to be successful,” Simbine explained. “The talent is here, and the coaching is here. My coach knows me better than anyone else, and we’ve developed a bond that has been crucial to my progress. I didn’t need to chase the American dream to achieve my goals.”

 

The decision to stay true to his roots, and remain in South Africa, comes with its own set of challenges. Training resources, support systems, and opportunities for international exposure can sometimes be more limited compared to what is available in the U.S. However, Simbine’s determination to build a sustainable and successful career without compromising his values has set him apart from many of his contemporaries.

 

“My coach and I have been through a lot together,” he continued. “The relationship we’ve built over the years has shaped me not just as an athlete, but as a person. I could have easily gone to the U.S. and joined a high-profile group, but I wouldn’t have had the same personal connection and understanding of what drives me. Sometimes, it’s not about the big names or the flashy setups, but about the people who believe in you.”

 

Bolt’s influence, not just as an athlete but also as an advocate for staying true to one’s roots, has evidently resonated with Simbine. “Usain never let the fame or the pressures get to him,” Simbine remarked. “He remained humble and dedicated to the process with his coach by his side. That’s something that has always stuck with me.”

 

As the sprinting world continues to evolve, Akani Simbine’s commitment to his coach and his refusal to chase the American dream serves as a reminder that success is not just about the destination but the relationships and values that sustain an athlete throughout their journey. By staying true to his roots, Simbine is poised to continue making history, as he joins the ranks of African athletes who are redefining what it means to be a champion on the world stage.