Kabelo Mulaudzi bags back-to-back 10km podium finishes

Kenyan runner Felix Masai won the race in 28:14, while Mulaudzi crossed the finish line in 28:43. 

Fellow South African Zenzile Pheko completed the podium in third place in 28:54.

Despite missing out on victory, Mulaudzi was pleased with his performance, especially after battling injuries and setbacks throughout the year.

“Honestly, I am very happy with my performance today because I have been struggling this year with injuries and setbacks. The race was good. It’s just that I closed the gap late, but all in all, it was a good experience,” he told SABC Sport.

READ: Felix Masai claims maiden Absa Run Your City 10km title

Mulaudzi, who is coached by Richard Mayer, also praised the route, although he admitted that the hill at the 7km mark was challenging.

“At 7km, the hill was tough and I struggled a little bit, but all in all, I can’t complain. I am happy and would like to thank the race organisers,” he said.

Known as “Mr Podium” in South African road running, Mulaudzi admitted that allowing Masai to break away early made it difficult to catch the Kenyan.

“The race started fast and we thought that maybe we would catch him, but when we tried to close the gap, it was too late.

“Honestly, I was targeting to win the race. Unfortunately, I did not win, but I am still happy with a second-place finish. For me, it is another podium finish.

“It has not been a season like last year because I had too many injuries. But I redeemed myself. I am going back to the drawing board to recover, and I hope to qualify for the World Athletics Road Running Championships half-marathon next year. That is my target,” he added.