'Sisters doing it for themselves' - Phalula Twins back Mabilo in CGA Presidential race

The postponement of the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) Elections following the chaos that ensued at the Germiston Stadium on the 5th of March, has given some candidates the opportunity to consolidate their support base. Karabo Mabilo who announced her intention to run for CGA President last month, has now enlisted the support of South Africa's most-loved running duo. Lebo and Lebogang Phalula are backing their fellow Sowetan to win the race for the federation's highest office, while the pair look to add their voices to the CGA Board.

The Phalula twins have pledged their support for Karabo Mabilo's bid for the CGA Presidential seat, while standing for the Athletes Commission and Track and Field Commission Board positions themselves.

“We know what runner’s need, we both grew up in the sport and have gained valuable knowledge about athletics. The development of athletics is very necessary, especially that of women athletes. We are at the pinnacle of our careers and want to see young female continue to dominate the sport” explained Lebo and Lebohang who are also contesting the postponed poll which will now be held on March 26. Lebo has accepted a nomination to be the Chairperson of the Athletes Commission portfolio, while Lebohang is nominated to lead the Track & Field commission.

The Phalula Twins' reasons for supporting Mabilo's campaign is simple - they want to see an increase in female participation in the sport they love and believe that they can help her achieve that goal. And with ten national titles between them over careers spanning two decades, the 38-year olds believe they have the right mix of skills and experience needed to attract sponsors and woo township youngsters especially to take up running.

Following the chaos at the Germiston Stadium the current CGA board led by president James Moloi has been dissolved. A new board will be elected on the 26th of March. Photo Credit: CGA Media.

Mabilo who is a member of Diepkloof Athletics Club, the same club where the twins were first nurtured is encouraged by their support arguing that the hardships faced by the provincial sports body may in part stem from what she terms 'athletic patriarchy.' Mabilo and her supporters have coined the phrase to describe a heritage of brotherhood which continues to see power and positions passed down from generation to subsequent generations of men, regardless of talent needs that need to be challenged. She is therefore buoyed to see what can be achieved when women work together.

“There is nothing more powerful than women collaborating, and now more than ever it feels like we are joining hands as leaders and celebrating not only our differences but similarities and goals to take athletics forward. There are indeed exciting times. We will be able to make a significant change and contribute to the success of CGA.”concluded Mabilo.