South African distance running entered a new era this morning as Maxime Chaumeton shattered the national 10km record at the tRUNsylvania International 10K in Brașov, Romania, clocking a blistering 26:55 to become the first South African in history to dip under the 27-minute barrier.
The 23-year-old speedster produced a performance of rare quality, storming to second place in a world-class field. In doing so, Chaumeton wiped 33 seconds off the previous South African record of 27:28, set by Adrian Wildschutt in Gqeberha earlier this year.
Chaumeton’s run not only redefined the limits of South African road racing but also signaled his arrival among the world’s elite.
Breaking the 27-minute barrier is a milestone reserved for the sport’s very best, and his achievement is likely to reverberate through the athletics community.
“I knew I was in good shape, but to run under 27 minutes. It’s something I’ve always dreamed of,” said a visibly elated Chaumeton at the finish.
“To be part of South African running history is an incredible feeling.”
“I believe in this game and it’s all about preparation,” said Chaumeton. “I prepared for two months and gave 100% to this. My coach Hendrik Ramaala is very well known within the running community and he’s the one who guides me. I have an insane group behind me and they all carry me through.
“That’s what takes you to these times and I’m very happy with my performance today.
“I think what really helped me was this new pacing technology that appeared on the lead car and it just took me to the target that I wanted.
I knew 27:15 was my target but when I saw I was on for 27 low I thought ‘let’s drop the gauntlet.
“It takes just one performance to open doors in this sport and hopefully everyone has seen me do it. The limits are impossible. I love Brasov and everything feels so amazing here.”
Wildschutt, who has been a trailblazer for South African distance running in recent seasons, graciously acknowledged the record-breaking performance.
“Records are meant to be broken, and Maxime has raised the bar. It’s fantastic to see South African athletes pushing each other to world-class levels,” he said.
Chaumeton’s breakthrough adds fresh fire to an already exciting rivalry between him and Wildschutt, with both athletes driving South African distance running into unprecedented territory. With global competitions looming, the prospect of two sub-27 men in the green and gold is a tantalising one for the nation’s medal hopes.
For now, Chaumeton stands atop the record books, his name etched in history as the first South African to run 10 kilometres in 27 minutes and change, a landmark moment that will inspire a generation.
