Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) hosted the second last cross-country league race of the season at the Westonaria Sports Complex in collaboration with Mohlakeng Athletics Club on July 8.
Another exciting league filled with great competition was witnessed that Saturday with over 1 000 athletes taking part in the event. It was great to see lots of upcoming talent and the depth of talent as some of CGA’s elite athletes went to the Absa Run Your City race in Durban.
One of the highlights of the day was the junior men’s 2km event which saw Sibusiso Msibi of UJ crossing the finish line in 5 minutes and 26 seconds in the first place. In second place was Jaden de Wet from Helpmekaar College in a time of 5 minutes and 48 seconds while Fernando Macavele had to settle for third place with his finishing time of 5 minutes and 55 seconds.
The junior women’s 2km event was dominated by Mahlatsi Ngwenya of Ubuhle Running Club who crossed the finish line in a time of 7 minutes and 28 seconds. Mosale Thobejane ran in the colors of Gallopers Running Club and finished second clocking 7 minutes and 59 seconds. Just a second difference from Thobajane was Portia Ramaoka of Palmridge Running Club who finished with a time of 8 minutes flat.
The intriguing development event of girls U14 saw Katelin Heymans of 32GI strive for victory to secure first place in a time of 13 minutes and 10 seconds. In second place and representing Nedbank with a finishing time of 13 minutes and 32 seconds was Jodene Shawe. Settling for third place was Jade Doran of Benoni Northerns Running Club.
“This proves that there is so much potential especially if such talent is handled with care, indeed the future for CGA is very bright,” said Providence Siziba of CGA.
The veteran men’s event was another showstopper of the day as we witnessed a lot of competition among athletes participating in the event. The above-mentioned event was dominated by Pule Tjaoana of Waterfall City Running Club, the athlete poses signs of great fitness as he has dominated in at least four leagues this season with great improvement in his performance as he clocked 21 minutes and 42 seconds. Vincent Seng of Bedfordview Running Club also gave his all to secure second place in a time of 22 minutes and 2 seconds. Lefu Lephoto of Mamepe Running Club took third place in a time of 22 minutes and 36 seconds.
With only one league remaining for the 2023 Cross Country season, the focus for most athletes will be the 2023 CGA Championships taking place on August 19. Athletes will be fighting for the Top 4 spots to be considered for the provincial team for National Championships which will be held on September 16.
Athletes are reminded they have to run at least three out of six leagues plus the CGA Championships to be considered for selection to represent the province.
