Northerns’ Mokoena reigns supreme at Springs Striders Race

It was a victorious 32km debut for Mokoena, as held off strong challenges from Thabo Masina and Doctor Mathole for his win.

January 19, 2026

Lebohang Pita 2 minutes read

Mpumelelo Mokoena crossed the line in 01:50:03. Photo: Lebohang Pita

Mpumelelo Mokoena produced the run of his life to storm to victory in the men’s 32km at the Springs Striders Road Race, clinching the title on his debut over the distance at Veritas College on January 18.

The Benoni Northerns Athletic Club (BNAC) athlete outpaced a competitive men’s field that included defending champion Thabo Masina of Waterfall AC and elite runner Doctor Mathole from Ubuhle AC, who boasts a 01:09:49 half-marathon PB, to claim line honours in 01:50:03.

The winner of the men’s 32km Mpumelelo Mokoena is flanked by runner-up Doctor Mathole (left) and Kabelo Sefali. Photo: Lebohang Pita

After a highly charged first half in which the leading contenders were inseparable, Mokoena made his decisive move at the 22km mark. He surged clear and held off a determined challenge from Mathole over the final 10km, entering the Veritas College grounds unchallenged to claim victory.

“It was my first time running a 32km race. I pushed myself hard. It was tough, especially in the first lap, but I was determined. I went all out after 22km and ensured nobody caught up with me,” said Mokoena.

Mpumelelo Mokoena won the men’s 32km at the Springs Striders Race. Photo: Lebohang Pita

Mathole, who was forced to walk portions of the final loop, crossed the line 35 seconds adrift in 01:50:38. Waterfall AC’s and Mokoena’s training partner, Kabelo Sefali, rounded out the podium, stopping the clock in 01:52:22.

Reflecting on his victorious debut, Mokoena said his decision to step up to the 32km distance after a strong season opener at last week’s Biogen Half-Marathon in Bedfordview confirmed he is moving in the right direction.

Mpumelelo Mokoena runs on the finishing straight before crossing the line to win the men’s 32km. Photo: Lebohang Pita

“I did my best today. I train hard and I’m happy with the results I’m seeing. I will keep on working hard to improve as an athlete,” he said.

Also Read: Mokoena powers to victory at Daveyton Street Mile

Mokoena, a Daveyton resident, will turn his attention to the CGA track and field season set to start on January 31 at Germiston Stadium.

Chrizell Roberts raises her finger before crossing the line to win the women’s 32km race. Photo: Lebohang Pita

Nedbank Running Club’s Chrizell Roberts, winner of the women’s 48km ultra-race at last year’s Benoni Northerns Marathon, produced an exceptional performance to clinch the women’s race.

A runner-up in last year’s race, Roberts led from the 19km mark. She clocked 02:19:29 for her victory, crossing the line 01:44 ahead of runner-up Salome Cooper of Jeppe.

Chrizell Roberts with runner-up Salome Cooper (left) and third-placed Lauren Quinn. Photo: Lebohang Pita

Cooper’s club mate, Lauren Quinn, completed the top three in 02:24:29.

“The first race of the year is always good. It’s a season opener to see where the fitness lies. Taking the top spot shows I’m getting there. Last year, I was second. I’ve improved my team. I can only be happy,” said Roberts.

Chrizell Roberts won the women’s 32km. Photo: Lebohang Pita

Roberts’ next assignment is the Johnson Crane Marathon on Sunday, her final long run before tackling the TracN4 Elands Marathon in Nelspruit on February 28.

“I hope to seal my Comrades Marathon qualifier at Elands Marathon. Afterwards, I will run some additional races, but the Comrades is the goal,” she said.

Also Read: Mikolongwe, Roberts triumph at BNAC Marathon