South Africans were glued to their screens on Tuesday afternoon as they watched star athlete Caster Semenya launch her bid for Olympic gold. Work came to a standstill across the country as the nation united in a show of support for the runner.
Clocked 1.59.31 – M&G fully behind you
@caster800m pic.twitter.com/YhTvODPgUU— Mail & Guardian (@mailandguardian)
August 17, 2016
It’s the day before deadline but the
@mailandguardian newsroom came to a standstill to see #Caster do her thing.
pic.twitter.com/yiiPEdNIOe— Pontsho Pilane (@pontsho_pilane)
August 17, 2016
We’ll be running with you in spirit at 3.55 pm
@Caster800m #SouthAfrica loves & supports you #Caster4Gold ❤ ❤ ❤ pic.twitter.com/AlyU8TJTfI— Charly’s Bakery (@charlysbakery)
August 17, 2016
Menlyn mall going crazy over #Caster. From shoppers to the workers everybody stopped to watch..#Caster4Gold @eNCA pic.twitter.com/EaXEqi3P6B
— Tee Stiles (@tee_stiles) August 17, 2016
Semenya exuded confidence right from the start. She settled in fourth place for the greater part of the race before cruising past her competitors in the final bend to win in 1:59.31 and book her place in the women’s 800m semi-finals.
Read more: Caster Semenya cruises through to Olympics 800m semi-final with ease
South Africans erupted with pride as the athlete crossed the finish line.
Congrats to
@caster800m for making it to the semi finals #Caster4Gold pic.twitter.com/IMi4e1eRC3— sportscene (@sportsceneSA)
August 17, 2016
She made it look so effortless. Sithi Salute as she gets ready for her final 800m run.
#Caster4Gold #TeamSA https://t.co/P48al9sKKy— Brand South Africa (@Brand_SA)
August 17, 2016
This tweet is for you @caster800m. We believe in you and we know that you have got this. #Caster4Gold <3 #FoxAfrica pic.twitter.com/8jRvi7z37X
— FOX Africa (@FOXAfrica) August 17, 2016
The semi-finals will be broadcast at 2.15am and many expect Semenya to advance.
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