Young star crowed Optimum Athletics SA Dash League champ
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Originally from Langebaan on the West Coast and now based in Bredasdorp in the Overberg, Del-Piero has continued to build his reputation across regions, consistently delivering standout performances on the track.
Th Optimum Athletics SA Dash League 1 comprised three events — Race 1, Race 2 and Race 3 — featuring a unique format that combined athletes aged 7 to 11 in a single competitive category. While Under-7 athletes are introduced to the sport using whistle starts, competitors from Under-9 level and above race under official starting pistol conditions, placing Del-Piero in a structured and highly competitive environment.
The series began with Race 1 in November 2025, where Del-Piero immediately made his mark. Competing in the Under-9 category against older athletes, he set new record times in both the 60m and 80m during the semi-finals and finals, earning a gold medal in one event and a silver in the other.
At the end of March, Del-Piero returned for Race 2 and Race 3, where he delivered dominant performances. With age groups adjusted for these events, he competed within his category and secured gold medals in both the 60m and 80m in Race 2, before repeating the same double victory in Race 3.
Across the series, he recorded impressive personal best times of 8.52 seconds in the 60m and 11.37 seconds in the 80m, underlining his rapid development and sprinting ability at such a young age.
The Dash League’s points-based system rewards participation, consistency, final placings, and record-breaking performances. Del-Piero’s consistent podium finishes, race victories, and record-setting performances saw him accumulate the highest overall points, securing the Boys 7–11 Championship title.
His performances throughout the series have showcased exceptional speed, discipline, and composure beyond his years.
As a young athlete representing both his West Coast roots and his current Overberg base, Del-Piero Paulo is fast establishing himself as a rising name in South African youth athletics.













