By Thathe Msimango
It’s been almost four years since South African middle distance sensation Ryan Mphahlele had athletics communities applauding his performances in both track and road races.
During 2018 he managed personal best times over one mile, 3,000m, and 10km, which still stand to this day.
But then his career suffered a huge blow when he picked up an injury that kept him from being competitive for nearly three years.
“Before the injury I was in my best form. I was used to winning races and running good times,” said the 24-year-old Tembisa-born athlete who studies at the University of Johannesburg (UJ).
“I was on the sidelines for three long years.”
He said the break caused by the Covid-19 pandemic probably came at the right time for him.
“There were no races and it gave me time to focus on my recovery,” he said.
The road to recovering his sizzling form has been astonishing. He grabbed a silver medal in the 1,500m race at the African Athletics Championship in July this year.
He then posted a great 3:34:66 best time over the same distance in Alexandria Stadium during the Commonwealth Games in August.
“I think any athlete to perform at the highest level must be surrounded by a good support system. I receive the best support from my family, coach, manager, and friends,” said Mphahlele, who is the reigning SA 1,500m Champion.
“I still have more good times that I will produce. I’m a patient person, especially regarding progress. I won’t rush it and I take one race at a time. I had an amazing year and hope next year will be much much greater.”
Mphahlele is coached by Elvis Khoza who represented the country at the 2019 World Athletics Cross Country Championship in Denmark.
Pictured above: Ryan Mphahlele
Image source: Supplied
