Rising Benoni distance runner Zandreh van der Merwe says the inaugural Champions League Cross Country series was about far more than results.

The youngster believes the innovative franchise-based competition played a significant role in his growth this year, helping him sharpen his racing intelligence and build confidence heading into the school and club cross-country season.

Van der Merwe reflected positively on a campaign that featured both highs and lows, including earning the coveted yellow vest as one of the competition’s standout performers.

“It has been very fun through all the ups and downs,” he said.

“There were a lot of ups, especially at the first trials, where I ran an incredible 2km time. There were also some downs, particularly at the previous stage where I wasn’t feeling right beforehand and didn’t have a good race, but overall I’m very pleased with myself and very happy to have earned the yellow vest.”

Unlike traditional cross-country events where athletes compete solely for individual honours, the Champions League format places a strong emphasis on teamwork, something Van der Merwe initially found unfamiliar but ultimately rewarding.

“It was very exciting, especially getting to know new people and having teammates who needed backing. It was fun cheering them on and supporting each other.”

The relay finale at Curro Serengeti challenged athletes with a demanding course featuring steep climbs and technical sections, offering valuable lessons for young runners.

With 2026 serving as a developmental year in his athletic journey, Van der Merwe said the series helped him gain a deeper understanding of pacing, race tactics and technical execution.

“Definitely the technical side of running,” he explained.

“I’ve realised my technical ability has improved a lot. There is still work to do, especially on the corners and accelerating into the hills, but I’ve learned a great deal.”

The Hoërskool Kempton Park learner believes the team-based concept offers important benefits for young athletes beyond physical performance.

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“It helps you develop better morals and learn to support your teammates when they need encouragement, as well as other competitors.”

The competition has also strengthened him mentally and physically ahead of the winter cross-country campaign.

“It has definitely helped me a lot mentally. Physically, it’s helped me work on things like ankle stability and overall strength, which will help me during the coming season.”

Looking ahead, the Benoni athlete remains grounded about his ambitions.

Recognising that he is still in a developmental phase, he is focused more on progression than podium finishes.

“My goal is to make the South African championships. Because this is a development year for me, I’m not focusing too much on winning medals right now. I want to get into the top 10 and qualify for the SA championships in the club season.”

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