Wayde van Niekerk’s coach, Anna Botha, wins big at IAAF Awards
The 76-year-old Anna Botha has been honoured at the annual IAAF Awards.
Botha, who is Olympic and World champion Wayde van Niekerk’s coach, has been honoured with the Coaching Achievement Award.
Fondly known as Tannie Ans Botha, the coach flew the South African flag high on Friday night.
She was named as coach of the year.
#AthleticsAwards Coach of the Year Ans Botha shares what it takes to have a long and successful career. pic.twitter.com/ivnQUHTe1c
— IAAF (@iaaforg) November 25, 2017
Anna Botha, coach of 400m world champion and world record holder @WaydeDreamer , wins the Coaching Achiement Award at the #AthleticsAwards pic.twitter.com/cyp6fy2zWA
— IAAF (@iaaforg) November 24, 2017
Botha has a long spanning career - having been a coach for 50 years.
Fascinating listening to Ans Botha talking about coaching @WaydeDreamer to success. She is an incredible lady who is celebrating 50 years in coaching. A very impressive person. pic.twitter.com/Hxv7dESASc
— Seth Bennett (@Sethb45) November 24, 2017
Van Niekerk took to social media to pay tribute to his coach.
Dear Coach. Tannie Ans.
— Wayde van Niekerk (@WaydeDreamer) November 24, 2017
No achievement shines brighter then Love and a Good heart.
You deserve all the praise and recognition.
Although that's never been or ever will be the motive.
You a Legend. #TannieAns
Congratulations Coach... your love, passion and faithful spirit made us Champions...
— Wayde van Niekerk (@WaydeDreamer) November 24, 2017
The Lord said " do not be afraid, be courageous and you'll be blessed." 🙌🙌🙌🙌🕆 https://t.co/UihxrgYoU2
Van Niekerk unfortunately missed out on the athletics top prize of 2017 IAAF Athlete of the Year.
Qatari high jumper, Mutaz Essa Barshim, won the coveted title.
Barshim succeeds retired Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt.
The Qatari claimed the title from a shortlist comprising Britain's long distance star Mo Farah and Van Niekerk.