Thabang Mosiako targets Olympic marathon qualification

The Nedbank Running Club star is hoping to make his Olympic debut and believes he can achieve his dream, even though he has been self-coached for the past two years.

Mosiako parted ways with his former coach Mike Mbambani in Gqeberha and has since taken charge of his own training.

The 31-year-old says his Olympic dream remains one of his biggest goals.

“The Olympic Games is part of my big goal, and I always talk about it with my wife Thandi.

This year, I suffered an injury in April, but I am okay now and I can run with confidence again. I will run a few marathons and believe that I can make the Games through the world rankings if I cannot get closer to the 2:06 or 2:08 times,” he told SABC Sport.

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 Mosiako, who has focused mainly on the half-marathon, has already competed in several marathon races abroad.

He plans to return to the international marathon circuit in search of a fast time and a place on the South African Olympic team.

“We are working on one or two marathons, but we can’t reveal them now,” said Mosiako.

The former national 5000m champion looks up to four-time Olympian Stephen Mokoka, who has represented South Africa in both the 10 000m and marathon at the Olympic Games.

Mosiako announced himself on the local athletics scene when he defeated Mokoka and South African marathon record holder Elroy Gelant to win the 5000m national title in Potchefstroom.

After winning the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10km last year, Mosiako says he has grown into a more mature and focused athlete.

“I am a better version of myself with more discipline and hunger. I am a father and an athlete who knows what he wants. I coach myself and take care of my family. A lot has changed, and I would like to thank Nedbank for sticking with me all these years. I see myself at the Olympic Games one day,” added Mosiako.