Primrose runner shines with back-to-back wins

Seventeen-year-old Tshepiso Mofokeng of Boxer Athletics Club is making waves on the athletics scene after clinching two impressive victories – first at the South African Schools Cross Country Championships, and more recently, at the Zithulele Sinqe Road Race in Alexandra.

At the Zithulele Sinqe event, Mofokeng dominated the U17 girls’ one-mile race, securing first place ahead of Ayanda Tovela (Kopano AC) in second and fellow Boxer AC athlete Mapaseka Mongatane in third.

Earlier in the same event, she finished fourth in the 5km race.

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“That 5km was fun, but I felt sick and defeated afterward. I honestly didn’t think I would manage the one-mile,” admitted Mofokeng.

“Winning the one-mile brought back my confidence. I was feeling weak in my knees, but once the race started, I came alive,” she said.

For her win, Mofokeng walked away with a gold medal, a new pair of running shoes, and a monetary reward.

Her performance in Alexandra followed her success at the South African Schools Cross-Country Championships, where she represented Gauteng as part of the provincial team.

Competing in the U17 girls’ 4km race, she claimed gold, contributing crucial points to Gauteng’s overall tally, helping the province secure first place at the national event held in White River.

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Reflecting on the race, Mofokeng said it was fun being part of the event and winning it.

“In the first 2km, I ran behind a few athletes to conserve energy. Then I paced myself to the finish line, creating a gap between me and the others,” she said.

She credits her consistent training and focus for her achievements this year.

“This year has been incredible. I’ve been consistent in my training and performance. I give myself time to grow, not just as an athlete, but as a teenager too,” said Mofokeng.