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Lesotho road running sensation Kamohelo Mofolo told SABC Sport that from the start of the year, his focus has been on breaking the national 10km record.
The 20-year-old smashed the 23-year-old mark of 27 minutes and 52 seconds, previously set by Namkoe Nkhasi, by running 27:47 to claim second place at the Absa Run Your City 10km race in Durban over the weekend.
Adding to the moment’s significance, the former record holder was present to see the young athlete break the long-standing record.
The two posed for pictures and celebrated the achievement in KwaZulu-Natal, with Mofolo telling the national broadcaster that his next goal is to represent the Mountain Kingdom at the Olympic Games in the 5000m and 10 000m events.
“I’m really happy to have finally broken the record—it’s something I’ve been chasing all year. I came close in Gqeberha and Cape Town but couldn’t get it done there,” he said.
“Namakoe Nkhasi is a legend and an incredibly talented runner, so I’m proud to have broken his record. He’s also expressed his support, which means a lot to me.”
Reflecting on the race, he added, “I really enjoyed it, although the last kilometre was tough. I’m proud to have represented my country, and I’m hopeful that I can lower this record even further in the near future.”
Kabelo Mulaudzi of Boxer Running Club claimed victory in a personal best time of 27:41, once again finishing ahead of Kamohelo Mofolo, just as he did in Cape Town in May.
However, Mofolo had the upper hand in Tshwane last year, where the two also secured the top two positions. Speaking to the national broadcaster, Mofolo reflected on the growing rivalry between them.
“Mulaudzi is quick and knows how to outpace me. He’s a friend who always wishes me well before races. I really wanted to beat him this time, but he was stronger in the final kilometres, and my body just couldn’t respond,” said Mofolo, who boasts a personal best of 28:29 in the 10,000m flat.
“I still believe I can beat him in the upcoming races in Tshwane and Johannesburg. My dream is to represent my country at the Olympics, and I’d be honoured if I’m selected to compete at this year’s World Championships in Tokyo."
