Grand master athlete gives back to the community
Various running clubs in Bedfordview have been part of grand master athlete Joseph Mkolo’s journey for 35 years, and he is grateful.
Fifty-nine-year-old Joseph Mkolo, who ran for 35 years from 1988 to 2023, is grateful and giving back to the community.
The qualified athletics coach also holds sports administration and level two performance coaching on his badge.
Mkolo expressed his gratitude to the 10 clubs he ran for back in the day, including Bedfordview Athletics Club, Fit 2000 Bedfordview, Jeppe Quondam, and Central Gauteng Athletics.
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Mkolo, who ran four Comrades Marathons within the 35 years, said, “I am a grand master now doing the cross country series. I want to thank the [aforementioned] clubs for coming to my rescue in developing poorly disadvantaged children for so many years.”
In 2021, the community developer decided to share an international sponsorship from Germany with the athletics club at Menzi Primary School, where he is based, in Tsakane.
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Mkolo managed to take one of his athletes to the SA Athletics Championships in Rustenburg in 2022.
The grand master now gives back to the community by developing young runners through free services.
He encouraged upcoming young runners to put in the work and be disciplined rather than expecting quick victories, as achievements take time and dedication.
Mkolo may be reached on 079 204 9555.
