On the spotlight after his silver medal in Paris 2024, Bradley Nkoana arrived to Lima as one of the present and future stars in athletics. But if his success in the World Athletics U20 Championships Lima 2024 is somehow expected, it was his nails that really stood out after the 100m heats in the first day of competition.
With a big, characteristic smile, Nkoana is eager to tell the story behind his careful nail art and preparation. One of his nails features the South African flag, which highlights the love for his country. The World Athletics U20 Championships is represented with the abbreviation WJ (World Junior) Lima, “because it is a limited edition”.
DRAGON BALL
“Then I got the Dragon Ball in Asian letters, two crosses in both middle fingers, the A for athletics because I’m in love with the game,” he adds.
When you ask him about his silver medal in Paris, he will repeat that it’s well-kept back home, and that his dad has to send photo proof every three days. But if you ask him about his nails, he will get carried away. “I could do this all day, man.”
LOVE AND BUTTERFLIES
The butterfly design shows sensitivity and there’s also an “amore” quote, that underlines love.
Love from his family is what backed Nkoana as he progressed in this sport until reaching the club of the fastest men in his country.
Finally, the importance of looking good was painted in the Louis Vuitton logo. “For fasties, man,” laughs the young athlete, who is going to try to get another medal nineteen days after Paris.
And put some extra layer of glory to his career. And maybe some new designs for his nails, too.
MESSAGE TO THE YOUNG
“My message to the young ones and the upcoming is don’t limit yourself, even if you feel like you’re the youngest, but to the world, you are someone and you have value so don’t limit yourself and anything is possible.
“Through God anything is possible, just push yourself to the limit and don’t let the seniors belittle you. So just just run your heart out and have fun, you know. That’s always important, just have fun”.
Credit: AIPS Media
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