Kiana Pepler’s bold, hit-them-hard-from-the-gun approach has paid rich dividends this season, turning her into one of the most consistent performers in the U20 women’s 800m at the CGA open track and field league meetings.

The 18-year-old Benoni Harriers Athletic Club runner showed intent early, claiming victory in the first three league meetings. It was only in her first head-to-head clash with double-lap specialist Chemenè Mentz on February 28 that she tasted defeat, finishing third.

But even then, there was progress. Her personal best of 02:21.01, set in the third league meeting on February 14, underlined the upward curve of her campaign.

Yet Pepler is the first to admit the season has lacked one key ingredient – sustained pressure at the front.

“The plan is to go out with the front group, hopefully push myself to set a new personal milestone. In the past three leagues, I haven’t really had anyone pushing me. I’ve just gone out and did what I had to do,” she said.

While her aggressive tactics worked in the early rounds, Pepler acknowledged she did not face the kind of relentless competition needed to drag her to the next level. That is exactly what she hopes to find at the CGA Championships at the UJ Athletics Stadium on March 13 and 14.

“I hope there will be a strong front group at the provincials to push and lead me to the national championships at the end of the month.”

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That front-running battle will almost certainly be provided by Mentz, last year’s national silver medallist, who boasts a lifetime best of 02:11.66. The Helpmekaar Kollege athlete offered Pepler a preview of what to expect when she stormed to victory in 02:16.88 at the final league meeting (February 28).

Mentz dictated matters from the gun, with Pepler and Skye Dickson of Pacers tracking closely behind. When the pace bit in the final 400m, Pepler’s wheels threatened to come off, but she dug deep to secure a podium finish. It was the kind of high-intensity contest she admits she has been missing all season.

“It’s been a learning curve. I can see where I need to improve, especially in the second lap. Coach Richard O’Donoghue and I are practising that and have spoken about what to do and what we need to improve in each race.”

With the ASA championships looming, Pepler needs to clock 02:20.50 or faster to qualify for the national showpiece set for Germiston Stadium from March 26 to 28.

With league times of 02:26.70, 02:24.56, 02:21.01 and 02:22.21 already in the books, the Benonian believes the qualifying standard is well within reach – and with it, a first set of provincial colours on the track.

“The plan is to clock 02:15 or somewhere closer. Otherwise, I just want to run a good race.

“Fitness-wise, I’m ready for whatever has to come. Mentally, I just want to get through the hurdle of when I feel pain to keep pushing through and never give up. Other than that, I’m ready, and training has been preparing me for what’s coming.”

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