JOHANNESBURG, February 12 (ANA) – Gift Zet won the men’s 12km Xterra trail run in a time of 32 minutes 14 seconds in Nelson Mandela Bay on Sunday.
“The route was tough,” says Zet. “There was so much sand. I am tired, but I had fun. The sand was my toughest competition.”
Eric Sigxashe came in second, while Mvuyisi Gcogco finished third.
Coming from a road running background, Siphokazi Nojeko obliterated the field in the women’s event in a time of 40:35.
“I’m currently training for the Two Oceans Half Marathon,” says Nojeko. “My coach said that the Xterra Trail Run would be good cross training. I enjoyed today. Trail running is definitely more challenging than road running. I think it could also be really good for mental strength.”
According to Nojeko’s coach, Mpumelelo Ndlumdini, trail running is a tough sport. “I advised Siphokazi to enter the Xterra Trail Run in Nelson Mandela Bay as it would be good preparation for her bigger events. Trail running is tough. It will strengthen her as an athlete. When she’s back on the road everything will seem easy.”
Reigning 6km Xterra Trail Run champion, Siyabonga Kahla successfully defended his title on the day.
“My goal was to beat last year’s finishing time,” said a very happy Kahla. “The route was really well marked and easy to follow. Unfortunately I didn’t get to look at the scenery. Next year I will enter the 12km race.”
Kahla crossed the finish line in 17:30. Ambesa Tokwe came in second, while Ngxishe Sansiso finished third.
Nomakhosi Ntiziolo crossed the finish line first in the women’s 6km Xterra Trail Run with a finishing time of 23:16.
Linel Engelbrecht came in second, while Lisa Watkins-Baker finished third. – African News Agency (ANA)
