Ryan Mphahlele and Glenrose Xaba won the men’s and women’s elite races at the Boxer Super Run Durban, in 13min 37sec and 15:27, respectively. Mphahlele became the fastest South African on African soil, and set a course record.
“The last time that I ran a 5km was two years ago,” said Mphahlele. “The opportunity came, especially in Durban, it’s a coastal area, so I thought let me come and top it. It was like a fitness run to me, to see where my fitness is at this time of the year. It was good to see where I am at.
“Elroy (Galant) was my toughest competition and of course Kabelo Mulaudzi really showed up,” Mphahlele said. “When I looked back, I saw that Kabelo was moving closer, so I just had to take the sting out of him. It was my goal to win today, and it feels very good.”
Mulaudzi came in second, while Gelant finished third.
Xaba, Karabo More and Tayla Kavanagh contested the women’s race finish.
“Today’s race was good. The pace was too fast,” said Xaba. “I recovered very well after two long runs that I did in preparation for my Valencia Marathon. I am very happy about the win, and with the competition from Karabo and Tayla. Well done to them. It was a good race. I went with the strategy of my coach, just sit behind, but when you take the move take it and don’t think about your training partner (referring to More), she will follow. It feels good to be back and to be on the podium.”
More was second, while Kavanagh finished third.
