Know more about our new sports writer, Cyril Lehong

The Herald recently welcomed new sports journalist Cyril Lehong to the team. The 35-year old is married to Thuli (35) and lives in Benoni.

• Tell us a little about your journalism background.

I have a media and journalism diploma from Rosebank College.

I have worked in both print and broadcast media.

My print experience has been with Caxton as I have previously worked for the Boksburg Advertiser and Germiston City News.

In broadcast, it was mainly behind the scenes in television first with e News Channel Africa (eNCA) and later Kwese Sport.

• Why did you become a sports journalist?

Sports has always made sense to me.

My parents often remind me of a 10-year-old version of myself arguing with grown-ups about sports.

My life has always been centred around sports.

• What is your favourite sport and why?

My favourite sport is boxing.

I believe it is an honest sport in the sense that whatever work you put in while preparing will show.

Boxers can’t hide in the ring.

People can often tell if a boxer has not put in the effort.

• Who is a sportsperson you admire? Why?

My answer to this one changes all the time.

Right now I would say a South African boxer by the name of Moruti Mthalane.

At age 36 he is still a world champion and dominating against fighters 15 years younger than him. That’s incredible.

• Do you play sports? What kind?

At the moment no, but I did grow up playing rugby and was a decent 100m and 200m athlete in high school.

I also used to play indoor soccer.

• What is, in your opinion, the state of sport in Brakpan and in the East Rand area in general?

There are some good sports stars in Brakpan, and I look forward to getting to know as many of them as possible.

I know the wrestling and rugby clubs have always been strong. Unfortunately sports facilities in the East Rand are not always well-maintained.

• What are your predictions for the cricket and rugby world cups? Who will win?

I would love to say South Africa will easily win both but I don’t see it happening.

Our cricket team is aging and struggling so I think the Cricket World Cup will be won by either England or India.

Our rugby team might look a bit better than the cricket side, but I think it is more realistic to expect the Springboks to challenge for that Webb Ellis trophy in 2023.

Rugby World Cup will be interesting. England, Ireland and Wales all have a chance.

Of course the All Blacks are always going to be among the favourites as well.

• Do you have any other hobbies or special interests?

I like reading biographies and can binge heavily on television series, just not a fan of Game of Thrones.

I also spend a little time in the gym.

• What makes you laugh?

I’m a huge fan of stand-up comedy so comedians always make me laugh.

• Name one thing about yourself that most people don’t know.

I enjoy being home with a book and episodes of my favourite series.

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