Stephen Mokoka urges youngsters to embrace Commonwealth Games opportunity

With road running excluded from this year’s Commonwealth Games, scheduled for 23 July to 2 August in Glasgow, Scotland, Mokoka will not be in contention.

His only possible route to selection would be through the 5 000m or 10 000m, but the four-time Olympian says his days on the track are behind him, with his focus now firmly on the 10km, half-marathon and marathon events.

Despite his disappointment, Mokoka has encouraged emerging athletes to step forward and make themselves available for selection in Athletics South Africa’s squad, viewing the Games as a vital stepping stone towards the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Mokoka has represented South Africa at four Olympic Games and made several appearances at the Commonwealth Games. He believes the event remains highly relevant and hopes more young athletes will take it seriously.

“It was a shock and tough to digest that there is no road running at the Games, but I have to accept it,” Mokoka told SABC Sport. “I’ve competed at the Olympics, African Games and World Championships, and I also ran at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in Australia. I’ve done almost everything, and all I wanted was another Commonwealth Games.”

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He said the level of competition at the Commonwealth Games makes it an ideal environment for developing athletes.

“The Games are still relevant and form an important part of development. The standard is very high, close to Olympic level, but not as extreme. That balance helps athletes grow. I ran 27:43 there, which was one of my best performances. Athletes should seriously consider participating, especially those who are still developing. Adriaan Wildschutt is a star today, and his journey started at the Commonwealth Games,” he said.

The 40-year-old further urged younger athletes not to miss the opportunity to compete in Scotland, noting that athletics and swimming will have the biggest representation at the Games.

“To the young athletes out there, track is very important and cross country is important too. You need to build your body, grow your muscles and go through the right process,” Mokoka added. “Please go to Scotland, compete and learn. You will not regret it.”