By Thathe Msimango
Athletics coach Elvis Khoza is delighted to see two of his athletes being selected to represent South Africa in next month’s World Cross Country Championship.
Ryan Mphahlele, a former SA 1,500m champion and Sibusiso Msibi have been given the opportunity to fly Mzansi’s flag on the world stage in Bathurst, Australia.
Mphahlele, who was part of the SA squad that competed in 2019 World Cross Country Championship in Denmark, will compete in the relay team. Msibi will battle it out in the Juniors 8km.
Khoza, who conducts training at Tembisa High School, said he is delighted and honoured to have two of his athletes being selected to represent the country.
“This is a mission accomplished. It makes me proud of the work I’m doing,” said the elated Khoza.
“At the start of last year, our goal was to have two or three athletes representing the country. Mphahlele achieved that early as he was part of the Commonwealth Games and African Champs squad. Then Msibi followed to ensure that our target was met. This is wonderful news.”
To continue achieving the successes Khoza has pleaded for more support especially from the athletes’ parents.
“I have proven that there is talent in the township. It’s a matter of taking care of it and being disciplined,” said Khoza, who is also an athletics coach at the University of Johannesburg.
“It is not about big facilities. Sport requires an athlete to work hard. If I can get more support from the parents of the youngsters I’m coaching then better results will come. There are more champions out there. We must just find them.”
