Thabang Mosiako and Bennet Seloyi to seek advice from Stephen Mokoka
16th September 2025
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South African half-marathon champion Thabang Mosiako says he will turn to his mentor and long-distance icon Stephen Mokoka for advice as he prepares for his debut at the Cape Town Marathon on 17 October.
This year’s edition will be the last held in October before moving to a new May slot from 2026.
Mokoka has cemented his place as the most successful South African at the Cape Town Marathon with three victories, and both Mosiako and fellow rising star Bennet Seloyi regard him as their role model.
The trio recently shared the podium at the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10km, where Mosiako celebrated his first-ever 10km victory in 29:45, Seloyi followed in second with 30:00, and the 40-year-old Mokoka finished third in 30:04.
Mosiako, who is targeting a top-10 finish in Cape Town, said it was a special moment to stand alongside his mentor.
“Stephen Mokoka is my mentor. I always call or text him if I need clarity about anything. He knows the Cape Town Marathon like the back of his hand, so I’ll be seeking his advice before my debut,” said Mosiako.
“I trust him a lot. We started this bond at the 2023 World Half-Marathon Championships when he guided me during the race.
Even in Cape Town, I think we’ll run the same splits. He’s my hero, and I have so much respect for him and what he has done for the sport.”
Despite being a decade older than Mosiako and 16 years senior to Seloyi, Mokoka continues to show remarkable longevity, something both younger runners aspire to emulate.
Seloyi echoed Mosiako’s admiration for their mentor.
“Mokoka is a true professional, and he always has time for young runners like me. I’m looking forward to learning from him at the Cape Town Marathon. He’s my hero, and I know his advice will help me approach the race the right way,” Seloyi said.
Mokoka will be chasing his fourth Cape Town Marathon crown and the R250,000 winner’s prize, while Seloyi and Mosiako will be satisfied with a top-10 finish.
Seloyi, the reigning national marathon champion, is making his second appearance in the race and goes into it brimming with confidence.
