Collen Mulaudzi predicts a fast time in Absa Run Your City Durban leg

Come Sunday, 9 July, prominent South African runners, including Mulaudzi and the likes of Thabang Mosiako, Stephen Mokoka, and Precious Mashele will all push themselves to the limit to break records and collect the prize money on offer.

Mashele recently shattered an eight-year-old South African 10km record, clocking an impressive time of 27:35 in Gqeberha just last month. 

Mokoka recently told SABC Sport of his urge to break the sub-28 barrier on home soil, and Mulaudzi hopes to draw inspiration from these exceptional athletes in his pursuit of a new personal best.

"I’m eagerly anticipating the Absa 10km race in Durban, I can feel the intensity building up. The incredible athletes participating in this event are expected to achieve fast times, some even finishing in 27 minutes," Mulaudzi told SABC Sport. 

"The mere thought of it sends shivers down my spine. Lately, my training sessions have been exceptionally productive, and I am excited that I’m pushing myself harder than before. 

"The prospect of competing against international runners on the coast no longer intimidates me. In fact, I relish the opportunity to run alongside them, and I have a well-thought-out plan and pace in mind. 

"While the international runners set the tempo, we South African runners are equally capable of maintaining a good pace. My body is responding positively, and my confidence continues to grow."

The 32-year-old Gauteng-based athlete regularly travels to KwaZulu-Natal after joining the Hollywood Athletics Club in Durban, where he trains with his peers, and says it is now like a second home to him.

"As a member of the Hollywood Athletics Club, I find myself going to Durban a lot, spending most of my time there. I have grown accustomed to the weather conditions, which I believe could work in my favour," he added. 

"My training partner [Stephen] Mokoka and I have been working on enhancing our speed during our sessions in Pretoria, and my focus is on building up mileage as I strive for peak performance in the upcoming race. 

"If I can achieve a time of 28 minutes, it would bring me immense joy, and I have the confidence to do it."