Brenda Marolen explains decision to contest for the CGA presidential elections again

By Charles Baloyi
21st December 2025

Respected South African road running administrator Brenda Marolen has thrown her hat back into the ring to contest the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) presidential elections, four years after her previous bid was derailed by a suspension.

Moralen insists that her 2022 suspension is firmly behind her, adding that she is a more experienced and focused administrator with a clear vision ahead of the elections scheduled for 24 January at Germiston Stadium.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Marolen says she returns with renewed confidence, a stronger campaign and belief that she can now lead one of the country’s most influential athletics provinces.

"Well, it was a few people that contacted me, the same way they had contacted me for the 2022 elections but unfortunately I couldn't stand. So, I think that I have the capabilities to lead the province,” Marolen said.

“So, it was more of clubs engaging with me. I got suspended by the province four years ago, so, obviously I could not stand because of the suspension, I think that is the difference."

READ: Patrice Motsepe: African football set for enormous financial windfall from AFCON scheduling changes

Marolen, a recipient of the 2025 Ministerial Recognition of Excellence Award at the Gsport Awards, believes gender should not be a factor in the upcoming elections. She says her candidacy is based on merit and experience, pointing to more than 30 years in athletics administration.

While the CGA presidency has historically been dominated by men, Marolen is confident that she has what it takes to lead the province forward.

"And I think my nomination has nothing to do with gender. I think it's just more looking at the capabilities and integrity of a candidate but of course I am a female and it is good to see that the counsel is open to engaging capable people regardless of their gender," she added.

The seasoned administrator, who also serves on the Comrades Marathon Association board, believes she has the necessary solutions to stabilise CGA after the board was dissolved and placed under administration by Athletics South Africa in October.