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Precious Mashele breaks SA 10km record
For the first time, two SA athletes dipped under 28 minutes in the same race.
Precious Mashele celebrates his new SA record in Gqeberha. Picture: Tobias Ginsberg
Long-distance runner Precious Mashele broke the South African 10km record on Sunday, taking second place against a strong field at the Run Your City race in Gqeberha.
Taking advantage of the fast, flat course, Mashele completed the race in 27:35, just 12 seconds behind pre-race favourite Daniel Ebenyo who clocked 27:23.
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Mashele took three seconds off the national record (27:38) which had been set by Stephen Mokoka in Manchester in 2015.
“I knew I was in shape after the World Cross Country Championships (in February, where he finished 16th), so I wanted to chase the SA record,” said Mashele.
“I know I have gone to another level now, so I am excited about what is to come.”
Personal best
Thabang Mosiako also did well to finish third on Sunday in a personal best of 27:52.
It was the first time two SA athletes dipped under 28 minutes in the same race.
Ethiopian athlete Bekelech Teku Wariyo won the women’s race in 31:36 and Glenrose Xaba was the first South African home, finishing fourth overall in 32:23.
