By Thathe Msimango
This time round Olympian Stephen Mokoka is heading to Lake Biwa Marathon in Japan as the favourite to cross the finish line first.
In 2020, Mokoka finished second in the event; in 2019 he came third.
The 38-year-old runner from Boxer Athletics Club said his training will allow for a good performance in the streets of Otsu on 26 February.
“I have been training hard for this race, but that’s not something new. I always train hard when I’m preparing for a race. I’m positive I have covered all the bases,” said the national half marathon record holder.
Mokoka had a great 2022. He won the Runified 50 km in Gqeberha in a world record time of 2:40:13 and ended the year with a victory at the Cape Town Marathon.
“I have a good track record in Japan. The results speak for themselves. I had a bad day at the office at the Olympics Marathon. I hope I can produce a good day in Japan,” he added.
Mokoka is coached by well-known South African athletics guru Michael Seme.
In a decorated career that has spanned nearly two decades, Mokoka has won the Shanghai Marathon four times, with three wins at the Cape Town Marathon.
Pictured above: Stephen Mokoka
Image source: Supplied
