'My goal is to defend my title' - Mashele ready for Boxer Super Run in clash against Gelant and Mulaudzi

Boxer Athletics Club top runner Precious Mashele, is ready to defend his Boxer Super Run title on Sunday (13 October 2024). In 2023 Mashele showcased his remarkable speed clocking 13:44 at the inaugural event in Durban to become the fastest South African to complete a 5km road race on home soil.

"I had a fantastic time at last year’s Boxer Super Run. It was an honour to be the first winner of such a well-organized race that had an incredible atmosphere and ideal weather. The flat course, along with sections on the pavement along the promenade, made it really enjoyable," said the SA 10km record holder.

Mashele and Mulaudzi in action during the inaugural Boxer Super Run in Durban in 2023. Photo Credit: Anthony Grote

Dismissed by some hardened ultra distance runners and marathoners as a distance reserved for walkers and occasional runners, the 5km road race is now an official World Athletics event which Mashele believes is essential for building speed for the longer distances.

"As an elite runner, incorporating the 5km into your training is essential. In our Zoo Lake Training Group, we do exactly that. Twice a week, we run short distances of 3-5km on an undulating grass route to test our speed and assess our fitness levels. It's a great way to gauge your form and readiness," explained the athlete who is the holder of a 60:00 half marathon lifetime best.

Gelant who became the first man to earn five consecutive Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series top five finishes in a single calendar year this year, is ready to make his Boxer Super Run debut. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg.

Mashele, who represented South Africa at the Tokyo Olympics over 5000m will go up against last year's runner-up Kabelo Muluadzi who finished just one second behind him and man of the moment Elroy Gelant who will make his Boxer Super Run debut. With a total prize purse of R147 000 up for grabs, this the richest 5km race on SA soil.

"It's a great incentive, as it will push athletes to take the race seriously. A fast 5km time helps improve performance in the 10km too. My goal is to defend my title and clock a sub-14-minute finish," he concluded.