Runner makes his own luck

The only South African runner in the men’s race, Miya will compete in this 42km mountain run on 29 June.

Miya hails from a road running background with an impressive 2:16:41 personal-best marathon time. His road running times remain impressive. Last year he ran a 1:09:00 half marathon.

“In 2009 I decided to try trail running as I enjoy doing tough things – surviving tough battles makes me proud,” he said.

Miya made his foray into trail events with short-distance races, and now favours those up to about 40km. Although trail is his main focus, he does participate in road races in the colours of the Gallopers running club, which he started.

Miya’s path to the Skyrunning World Champs was guaranteed when he won the inaugural Ingeli Skymarathon which was held in Kokstad in April. He covered the 42km course distance in 3:37:19, five minutes ahead of his nearest rival.

In preparation for this event, Miya has put in tough hill sessions at the favoured training venue, the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve south of Johannesburg.

The worls champs course profile shows a massive climb from 17km to 21km, so those hill sessions are going to count when Miya hits that demanding ascent.

“Absolutely, this will be the toughest section of the course, but I believe I’m naturally strong to survive it,” he said.

Having competed on the road racing scene, Miya has experience, a strong mind and enough cool to keep his composure under pressure.

“My aim for the race is to be safe and enjoy the run. To finish in the top 15 or top 10 will be a bonus.”

There’s no shortage of exceptional runners preparing to race. Miya will be in the mix with eight previous Skyrunner World Champions. The event has attracted athletes from 65 countries.

“It has been a dream to compete abroad and this is an incredible opportunity. It will be an amazing experience.”

The men’s race record of 3:30:41 is held by Kilian Jornet.