Kabelo Mulaudzi seals historic hat-trick at Absa Run Your City 10km

The 29-year-old, fondly known as “Mr. Podium,” edged Ethiopian challenger Asfaw Aklilu in a nail-biting photo finish, with both athletes clocking 29:00 at the Tshwane 10km event on Sunday.

Officials awarded the win to Mulaudzi, representing Boxer Running Club, ahead of Aklilu of Nedbank Running Club.

For his efforts, the Alexandra-born star pocketed R30 000, while Aklilu took home R25 000.

Another Ethiopian, Mohamed Abdilmejid, secured third in 29:10, also in Nedbank colours.

This victory adds the Tshwane leg to Mulaudzi’s earlier triumphs in Cape Town and Durban, marking his seventh consecutive podium finish.

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Coached by Richard Meyer, the Central Gauteng cross country 4km champion and national 5km titleholder is enjoying a stellar season.

Speaking to SABC Sport after the race, Mulaudzi admitted he wasn’t sure who crossed the line first.

“Honestly, I didn’t know if I had won—it was that close,” he said. “But I’m thrilled to make it three in a row. I want to thank my sponsors and the organizers for making this possible.”

The South African star welcomed the stiff competition from the Ethiopian contingent, saying it pushed him to raise his game.

“I’m proud of what I achieved today. The race was tough, but I embraced it. So far, my season is going really well, and I’m looking forward to what’s next,” he added.

Next up for Mulaudzi is the Hollywoodbets Durban 10km on August 30, where he will once again start as the favourite. The goal? Another podium finish—and maybe another victory.

“I’ve been chasing this hat-trick for a long time, and finally achieving it feels amazing,” he said. “Now I’m hungrier than ever. If I can win in Durban next week, it will make this season even more special.”

Since making his breakthrough in the Run Your City series in 2023, Mulaudzi has continued to grow stronger with every race, turning his hard work into impressive results.