Modern Athlete Magazine 172 September 2024 | Page 28

ROAD RUNNING
The second edition of the race had its biggest field yet
The leading men early in the race come true . I think it ’ s because I focus a lot . I don ’ t skip training , even when I ’ m tired – I just go easy and get the recovery all the time . I ’ m glad that I have a good system , Power2Health that supports me and keeps me very well in order to stay injury free .”
Ready for the Hills
The men ’ s race also saw a new course record as Lesotho ’ s Kamohelo Mofolo stopped the clock in 28:40 to win the race on debut and shatter the course record of 29:12 set by Kabelo Mulaudzi last year . Mofolo clawed back a nine second deficit held by early leader Gideon Kipgnetich of Kenya , who followed him home two seconds later , with defending champion Mulaudzi finishing third in 28:52 . Elroy Gelant , South Africa ’ s top finisher in the Olympic Marathon two weeks earlier and winner of the Cape Town and Durban legs of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series , was fourth .
Mofolo , who took 10th place at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K in July in a personal best 28:33 , said that his challenging training routes in The Mountain Kingdom prepared him for what was his first major triumph on South African soil . “ The course worked in my favour because I train on hilly routes in Lesotho , so my body is used to going up and down , which is why I could run well . I didn ’ t struggle at all ,” he says .
“ What an amazing day at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K ! Huge congratulations to Kamohelo Mofolo and Glenrose Xaba for their incredible achievements today – they really brought their
A-game ,” says Michael Meyer , Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder . “ A special shoutout also goes to the thousands of casual runners who embraced the spirit of the event , turning it into a true celebration of fitness and community .”
“ And of course , this event wouldn ’ t have been possible without the unwavering support of our sponsors , whose commitment helped make the day unforgettable . Together , we showcased the best of Tshwane . Up next is the grand finale of the series – the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K on National Heritage Day – and we invite all runners to join us for an unforgettable season closer !” concludes Meyer .

Cancer survivor to # RunYourCity for CANSA

CANSA Active Ambassador Nono Zwane , a cancer survivor from Centurion , has set an inspiring goal of raising R10,000 for CANSA by taking on the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series events inTshwane and Joburg .
At 36 , Nono Zwane received the devastating news that she had breast cancer . Despite the initial shock , she was determined to get through it , and today she stands proudly cancer-free . To celebrate her journey , she is taking action to support others facing similar experiences when faced with a cancer diagnosis . “ I am proof that early detection and support can make a difference , and I ’ m celebrating my survival by raising awareness and funds for CANSA at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K ,” says Zwane
“ I chose these events because CANSA is already the charity of the series and because running events promote health and wellness , aligning perfectly with CANSA ’ s mission to educate people about cancer and encourage leading a balanced lifestyle . Participating in these runs emphasises the importance of fitness in lowering the risk of cancer . Furthermore , as a breast cancer survivor , I know firsthand the importance of education , support , and access to care . CANSA provides a vital lifeline to those affected by cancer , offering a range of services from emotional support to practical assistance . By supporting CANSA , you ’ re helping to ensure that no one faces cancer alone .”
The Right Support
Zwane recounts that her journey has taught her that cancer doesn ’ t discriminate , but with the right support , she was able to overcome even the toughest challenges . “ That ’ s why I am calling on all runners and the friends and families of runners to support my cause . Let ’ s run together , raise awareness together , and make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer . With your support , we can create a wave of change , or in this case join the ‘ Sea of Red ’ and impact countless lives . Let ’ s run towards a cancer-free future .”
In closing , Zwane adds : “ I am really looking forward to experiencing the vibe , the atmosphere , and running with my husband . To every runner and walker taking on the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K and the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K , let ’ s lace up our shoes and hit the roads together . Let ’ s run not just for ourselves , but for a greater purpose . Let ’ s run in solidarity with those living with cancer , honouring their strength and resilience , in the face of adversity . Good luck , have fun , and may your strides be strong and your spirits high .”
Cancer survivor and CANSA Active Ambassador Nono Zwane
You can help Nono Zwane reach her goal for CANSA at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series by clicking here .
28 ISSUE 172 | www . modernathlete . co . za