South Africa's Elite Deliver World-Class Performances at Grand Prix #2 in Tshwane
The 2026 Grand Prix #2 Invitational Meet concluded in spectacular fashion this weekend at Hillcrest Swimming Pool in Tshwane, with three days of electrifying racing from 20–22 February 2026. The meet brought together South Africa’s finest swimmers and emerging stars, producing world-class performances, thrilling head-to-head battles, and statements of intent ahead of the international season.
From explosive sprint finishes to commanding distance displays, the competition highlighted the depth, resilience and rising standard of South African swimming.
Caitlyn de Lange ignited the pool with a world-class sprint performance blistering 25.14, delivering a time that was just one second outside the Olympic qualification standard - a powerful statement of intent as she builds toward international selection. Her performance confirms her readiness to challenge on the global stage.
In the Men’s 100m Freestyle, outstanding junior Armand Landmann delivered a breakthrough performance, claiming victory in 50.50. He further stamped his authority in the 50m Freestyle, blazing to 23.09, underlining his credentials as one of South Africa’s most exciting young sprint prospects.
Breaststroke excellence was once again on display as Chris Smith produced a series of high-quality swims. He stormed to victory in the 50m Breaststroke in 26.79 - just one second outside his personal best of 26.79 and followed it up with a superb 1:01.76 in the 100m Breaststroke, a performance right on his lifetime best. His consistency signals strong form heading into the international season.
Junior World Championship finalist Jessica Thompson demonstrated exceptional versatility across the sprint disciplines, capturing victories in the 100m Freestyle and 50m Butterfly in fast, commanding times. Her ability to dominate across strokes marks her as one of the most dynamic young swimmers in the country.
Distance excellence was also on full display as Catherine van Rensburg dominated the Women’s 800m Freestyle in 8:56.07, showcasing strength and tactical control from start to finish.
In the Men’s 400m Freestyle, Adrian van Wyk delivered a composed and authoritative performance to secure gold in 4:02.75 in a tightly contested field.
Butterfly brilliance came courtesy of Jaime Mote, who claimed the Women’s 100m Butterfly title in 1:01.36, while Juan Boshoff secured an impressive double, winning the Men’s 400m IM in 4:45.15 and the Men’s 200m Butterfly in 2:08.50.
Backstroke events delivered further highlights, with Helgaard Muller taking the Men’s 100m Backstroke in 57.92 and Tayla Jonker powering to victory in the Women’s 50m Backstroke in 29.15.
The Women’s 200m Individual Medley saw Kaylene Corbett reaffirm her class, touching first in 2:24.94 with a technically polished performance.
Beyond the headline victories, the meet showcased exceptional depth across all age groups, with junior swimmers fearlessly challenging seasoned competitors. Clubs from across the country demonstrated the strength of their development pathways, contributing to a highly competitive and inspiring atmosphere throughout the weekend.
The Hillcrest Swimming Pool once again proved to be a stage worthy of elite performance, with athletes rising to the occasion and delivering swims that signal a promising trajectory for the 2026 season.
Grand Prix #2 forms a critical part of the national competition calendar, providing athletes with a high-performance racing environment as they prepare for upcoming continental and global championships. The quality of racing witnessed in Tshwane reflects a program on the rise, with South African swimmers demonstrating readiness to compete at the highest levels.
Swimming South Africa extends its gratitude to Northern Tigers Swimming, officials, coaches, athletes, sponsors and supporters who contributed to the success of this prestigious event.
As the curtain falls on an unforgettable weekend in Tshwane, one thing is clear: South African swimming is surging forward with confidence, depth and undeniable momentum.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
Mafata Modutoane
mafata.modutoane@swimsa.org or 073 226 5688.
Swimming South Africa is the governing body of aquatics in South Africa.
Its objective is to encourage the practice of aquatic disciplines for all in South Africa with the purpose of promoting swimming as a life skill through Learn to Swim programmes; providing healthy exercise to South Africans of all ages and races; recruiting recreational swimmers to compete in the various competitions; and promoting competition and athlete development to the highest level. Swimming South Africa is kindly supported by SASCOC, National Lotteries Commission, Arena, Bombela Concession Company and Department of Sport, Arts & Culture.
