Thrills and challenges as CGA XC League 1 opens 2026 season in Alexandra
Athletes of all ages and experience levels gathered at the Altrec Sports Centre for the opening race of the Central Gauteng Athletics Cross Country League 1, tackling Alexandra’s demanding terrain with energy and determination.
The Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA), in collaboration with Run Alex, hosted the 2026 season opener of the Cross Country League 1 at the Altrec Sports Centre on Saturday.
It was yet another thrilling event for the local athletics club, built on the foundation of several successful races they have hosted this year. Members from various athletics clubs, novices and seasoned runners alike, young and old, assembled at the sports complex, ready to take on the course.
Read more: Run Alex Juniors’ Day brings together Alexandra’s young athletics hopefuls
Rodney Jones, representing Randburg Harries, expressed his excitement about participating in the 2026 CGA season at Alex. “I have enjoyed running cross country for several years now. I enjoy the undulated nature of the terrain; it poses a challenge.”
Although Jones and many other athletes brought plenty of experience, this was their first time tackling the Alexandra course. He admitted it would be demanding, especially given his busy racing schedule. “I can’t say this is my ideal preparation because this week I’ve run three parkruns, the 5 000m at the masters national championships, and a 400m race. I’m feeling a little stretched at the moment.”
@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Randburg Harriers runner Rodney Jones shares his excitement about tackling the Altrec course at the CGA cross country league 1 in Alexandra. Video: Itumeleng Maloka #Alex #GCA ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
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Another participant, Nhlanhla Vilakazi, shared his enthusiasm as he prepared to compete in the sub-veteran U35 category. “The excitement is there, though it’s just the beginning of the leagues. What I need is the momentum for the season.” Vilakazi added that he was eager to collect points to qualify for the CGA championships.
@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Central Gauteng Athletics Cross Country League 1 kicks off the 2026 season at Altrec Sports Complex in Alexandra. Video: Itumeleng Maloka #Alex #Athletics ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
The Altrec terrain, with its mix of uphills and downhills, proved both fun and challenging. “It is quite tough because when you’re running fast, climbing hills becomes difficult. But with training, you prepare for it. So, we’ll take it as it comes,” Vilakazi said.
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