Mulaudzi and Motlhamme stretch dominance at champs
Mulaudzi led a CGA top three in the men's 10km, while Motlhamme continued his dominance over the 2km with his fourth title.
Kabelo Mulaudzi won a third straight men’s 10km title, while Boikanyo Motlhamme stormed to a fourth consecutive men’s 2km gold to help Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) dominate the senior events at the ASA Cross-Country Championships in Middelburg on September 6.
Mulaudzi led a CGA podium sweep in the men’s 10km, completing five laps of the 2km course in 31:28. Teammates Zenzile Pheko (31:42) and Bennett Seloyi (31:54) claimed silver and bronze respectively.
The CGA quartet of Mulaudzi, Pheko, Seloyi and Chris Mhlanga stuck together in the early stages of the race, with Athletics Gauteng North’s (AGN) Musawenkosi Mnisi setting the early pace. Mnisi eventually faded, leaving the CGA athletes in control. Mhlanga dropped off before the final lap, where Mulaudzi surged ahead to defend his crown.
“The race was tactical and the course was tough. My legs were a bit stiff because I raced last week, but I’m happy with my performance today. I’d like to thank my coach Richard Meyer, my teammates, CGA and my sponsors for their support,” said Mulaudzi.
Reflecting on the challenge, the Boxer athlete added: “I know I’m always a target. Around 6km I wanted to give up, but I told myself to push and defend my title.”
Mnisi settled for fourth place, with Mhlanga in fifth, helping CGA to the team gold.
In another standout performance, Thembisa resident Sibusiso Msibi stormed to his first senior men’s 4km title. Running a smart race, he allowed Mnisi to set the early pace before launching his surge in the second half to finish in 11:46.
Msibi crossed the line with his hands raised and blowing kisses to the cheering crowd, celebrating his first title since winning the U16 boys’ 4km gold in 2019. Mnisi followed in 11:58, with AGN teammate Ettienne van Wyk third in 12:00.
“I’ve wanted the national title for a long time. The last time I won was in 2019 when I was 15. I’ve dreamed about winning the senior men’s 4km, and I’m grateful to finally achieve it,” said Msibi.
Motlhamme wrapped up the day with his fourth national men’s 2km crown, crossing the finish line in 05:37 and raising four fingers to the crowd. Athletics Central North West’s (ACNW) Jansen Bell was close behind in 05:40, while Dumisani Motloung secured bronze in 05:42.
CGA ended the championships with an impressive haul of 27 medals across events.
