North-West University (NWU) javelin star Jan-Hendrick Heymans delivered a stellar performance at the 21st World Athletics U20 Championships in Oregon, United States, where he won gold in the javelin event.

Held at the Hayward Field and drawing at least 1 659 athletes from 137 countries, the championships became a global stage where young talent could make their mark on history. Of the 42 countries that won medals, only 24 struck gold, and Jan-Hendrick ensured that South Africa was among them.

The five-day event also saw six under 20 world records, 11 championship records, and 17 under 20 area records achieved. Other athletes flying the NWU flag included javelin thrower Marine Grobler, who finished sixth in a competitive final. Andrea Steynberg participated in the 1 500 m and 800 m, finishing her 1 500 m heat in ninth place (31st place overall) and her 800 m heat in sixth place (36th place overall). Bertus van der Linde finished 11th in his heat (33rd overall), while Werner Gouws secured fifth place in the semi-finals and 11th place overall before missing a chance to compete in the final.

Led by team leader Jean Verster, the NWU contingent navigated the pressures of the championship, carrying the hopes of the nation on their shoulders as they competed against some of the best talent in the world.

Jan-Hendrick Heymans with his medal.