Gelant wins again, Molotsane ends season in style

Elroy Gelant dominated the men’s race, successfully defending his title, and pre-race favourite Kesa Molotsane stormed to a convincing victory in the women’s event at the SA 10km Championships in Nelspruit on Saturday.

After the lead men settled into a group in the early stages, Precious Mashele and David Manja started to inject some pace in the second half as they spread out the pack.

Gladwin Mzazi made a late break, with only Gelant able to respond, and the Central North West athlete used his lightning kick to open a gap in the chase for the line.

Gelant completed the race in 29:08, finishing seven seconds clear of Mzazi (29:15) who took second place ahead of Gauteng North teammate Mashele (29:17). Molotsane, meanwhile, closed out a superb season with her first national road title, crossing the line in 33:38 to secure gold in Free State colours.

Former SA 10km champion Nolene Conrad took the silver medal for Western Province in 33:58, and national 10 000m track champion Glenrose Xaba (Gauteng North) earned bronze, more than half a minute further back in 34:25.