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Veteran long-distance star Stephen Mokoka has decided to sit out of this year’s World Championships marathon, choosing instead to focus on local races and shorter distances.
The 40-year-old Hollywood Athletics Club athlete told SABC Sport that after an intense 2024 season, which included three major marathons and the Olympic Games in Paris, his body needs a break from high-level competition.
Mokoka has confirmed that he will return to the Cape Town Marathon on 19 October, where he hopes to extend his record by winning a fourth title.
Before that, he will compete in the Absa Run Your City Tshwane 10km and the Hollywood 10km race in Durban on 24 and 28 August as part of his shift to less demanding events.
“Last year took a lot out of me,” Mokoka explained. “Three big marathons, including the Olympics, really wore me down.
“That’s why I’m staying away from the major global races this year. I’m focusing on one marathon and 10km races, which are less taxing and easier on my body.”
As a result, Mokoka will not be part of the South African team heading to the World Senior Championships in Tokyo from 13–21 September, where fellow long-distance runner Elroy Gelant will represent the country.
Despite his absence, Mokoka has thrown his support behind Gelant, South Africa’s national marathon record holder, and believes he has a real chance of making the podium.
“I’m not going to miss competing at the World Champs,” Mokoka said. “I’ve had my run—six senior world championships, the Olympics, and years of top-level competition.
“Right now, I want to enjoy racing again without the intense pressure. You can’t keep chasing the same dream forever; it starts to wear you down.”
Mokoka also expressed confidence in the next generation of South African distance runners, saying the local marathon scene is steadily improving.
“There are a lot of young, talented athletes coming through. The future looks bright, and I’m excited to see where they go.”
He concluded with a message of encouragement for Gelant: “Elroy has been consistent over the last few years. I really hope he gets the podium finish he deserves in Tokyo.”
