Thabang Mosiako eyes Joburg 10km title defence

The popular race will take place at Nasrec in Johannesburg on 18 October, with Mosiako returning to the streets where he enjoyed one of his biggest wins last year.

Mosiako, who won the race in the colours of the Nedbank Running Club, has confirmed his entry and is hoping to produce another strong performance in Johannesburg.

The 31-year-old former national half-marathon champion has had a difficult season because of injuries, but he believes he is ready to challenge for another victory.

“I am going back to Jozi to try and defend the title. I am a different Thabang, who is self-driven and works hard, and I just want to try and finish the season on a high note,” he told the national broadcaster.

READ: Glenrose Xaba determined to secure Spar Grand Prix title

Mosiako, who is self-coached, has been one of South Africa’s most consistent distance runners over the years. However, injuries have disrupted his progress this season.

He is now hoping to rediscover the winning feeling in Johannesburg, with R40 000 on offer to the winner, making it one of the best paying 10km races in the country.

Mosiako has enjoyed success over 10km, but believes the half-marathon remains his strongest distance. He is also using the Joburg race as an opportunity to improve his speed.

“I can do the half-marathon better, but I want to improve my times in the 10km race. Let’s just say that I want to finish the year with a win before moving on to my plans of qualifying for the Olympic Games in Los Angeles via the marathon,” explained Mosiako.

The former South African 5000m champion has already shown signs of returning to his best form. He finished in the top ten at the Hollywoodbets Durban 10km race in August, a result that gave him a much-needed confidence boost.

Mosiako is now hoping to turn that confidence into another victory in Joburg before shifting his attention to the marathon and his long-term goal of qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.