Ryan Mphahlele: It feels great to win maiden Boxer Super Run title

The 27-year-old produced a stellar performance to clock 13:37 along Snell Parade near Blue Lagoon in Durban on Sunday.

Speaking to SABC Sport after the race, Mphahlele said the victory was especially rewarding against such a strong field.

“The last time I ran a 5km race was two years ago. It was more of a fitness run, for me to see where I am. Elroy and Karabo gave me tough competition, but it feels great to win. The weather was perfect, and I really enjoyed the course,” he said.

Mphahlele edged out Karabo Mulaudzi, who matched his runner-up finish from last year in 13:39, while national marathon record holder Elroy Gelant finished third in 13:42.

“I knew I had a good chance of winning. On paper, Karabo was the favourite, but I came here confident in my form,” he added.

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For Mphahlele, the win capped a remarkable season that also saw him represent South Africa in the 1 500m at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo.

Earlier this year, he competed in the Absa Run Your City Durban 10km, where he finished in the top 10 – proof of his growing confidence and comfort racing in KwaZulu-Natal.

“I love running in Durban; the courses here are always fast. Whenever I get the opportunity to race here, I grab it. I just enjoy the atmosphere,” Mphahlele concluded.