Ryan Mphahlele sets sights on defending his Boxer 5km title

Mphahlele won both the Durban and Joburg races, underlining his dominance in the competition. 

The Tembisa-born runner is now hoping to continue his winning run in KwaZulu-Natal, where he will once again be among the favourites.

Speaking to SABC Sport, the former national 800m champion says he is hungry to retain his title. 

"I'm going into the Boxer 5km Super Run as the defending champion, but that's not where my mindset is because I expect a tough race this year. I'm going in there positive with the intention of winning again, but I'm also very interested to see where may fitness matches up against the other competitors."

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The 28-year-old, who is coached by Elvis Khosa, says he enjoys Durban’s fast and flat course and is looking forward to another exciting race on the streets of the coastal city.

With a strong field expected, including Elroy Gelant, Chris Mhlanga and Kabelo Mulaudzi, Mphahlele knows he will have to work hard to defend his crown. 

The 2024 Olympian believes the competition will be even tougher than last year.

Mphahlele has also welcomed the attractive prize money on offer, with elite runners set to pocket R20 000. 

The Boxer 5km Super Run is regarded as the richest-paying 5km race in the country, adding even more motivation for the athletes to deliver their best performances.