By Thathe Msimango
South African runner Mbuleli Mathanga is hoping to make history in the World Cross Country Championship in Bathurst, Australia.
He is part of a strong squad that will head Down Under for the competition, scheduled for 19 February. The team, announced this week by Athletics South Africa (ASA), includes multiple national champion Precious Mashele, former 1,500m champion Ryan Mphahlele and South African 5,000m record holder Elroy Gelant.
Mathanga is a two-time South African cross country champion. He is representing the country for the first time and is hoping to make it count.
“I’m sure it won’t be easy, as most of the strong athletes will be there,” he said.
“This is the last time I’m going to run cross country, as I will turn my focus towards running road events. This year I’m hoping to make a marathon debut, and that is where my focus lies.”
The 29-year-old, who runs in the colours of the KwaZulu-Natal-based Phantane Athletics Club, said despite the tough competition he is facing he is adamant his training will give him good results.
“I have prepared for some time for this race. The good thing is I’m injury free and free of any niggles, and if things go according to plan I’m going to run well. If I can get the top 10, that would be a great bonus,” he told Scrolla.Africa.
Mathanga won the national colours during the 2022 African Athletics Championship in Mauritius.
Picture above: Mbuleli Mathanga
Image source: Phantane Athletics Club Facebook page
