Thabang Mosiako down plays chances of defending Joburg 10km title

The race takes place at Nasrec on Sunday at 7:30 am, with 12 000 runners expected to take part in the sold-out event.

Mosiako, who pocketed R37 500 for winning last year’s race, admits that he is still feeling the effects of the marathon. 

The winner’s prize has increased to R40 000 for the third edition, making it the richest-paying 10km race in the country.

The Nedbank Running Club star believes 22-year-old newcomer Sibusiso Msibi from Tembisa Athletics Club is the man to beat. 

"I don't think I'm going to defend this title with this young man next to me because I saw he can sprint that final 5km. I'm still in my marathon mindset so I'm just going to go with the flow and then we'll see how the race unfolds."

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The former South African half-marathon champion is pleased that he managed to complete the marathon in Germany, despite the challenges he faced.

Mosiako says the experience was valuable, even though the race took a lot out of him. 

He hopes to use the lessons learned in Germany as he continues to build towards his future running goals.

Mosiako rates his chances of winning on Sunday as 50/50, admitting that he is not yet fully recovered from his recent marathon.

The 31-year-old is also cautious about pushing himself too hard and risking an injury. 

The North West-born runner says he usually reaches his peak towards the end of the year. 

However, his preparations have been disrupted after bringing his marathon plans forward instead of sticking to his usual December schedule.

Mosiako will now have to assess how his body responds on race day as he looks to challenge for another title in Johannesburg.