By Sompisi Ntuli
Long distance running often gets a lot of attention during major road races such as the Comrades Marathon, Two Oceans Marathon and Soweto Marathon. It is, however, often ignored in off-road versions like cross-country.
Recently, the issue came up during the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Athletics hosted Cross Country Championships held in Howick in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. “There needs to be more investment into cross country, it’s not a very well-known sport, I think schools can commit more in relation to the learners competing. Schools are not very committed to cross country,” said Marilyse Thasen who is one of the parents of the children participating in the event.
The event featured athletes from around the province and they participated in 16 different cross-country disciplines. The event served as qualifiers for the Athletics South Africa (ASA) Championships which will be held in Middelburg, Mpumalanga, on 6 September 2025.
The first winner of the day was Hollywood Bets’ Simphiwe Zulu, who came out on top with a time of 26 minutes, 45 seconds, in the 8km race, 35-39 year category, which featured contestants ranging from 35 to 59 years of age.
“Today’s race was special, ever since I started participating in this particular race (8km), I’ve been winning,” said Zulu.
“I’m currently the defending champion nationally and the current provincial champion, it’s a great privilege because I’ve been victorous for the past five years and have been consistent,” Zulu continued.
The event was a testing ground for various athletes, ranging from primary, high school, university students, professionals, and pensioners.
“The combination of learners and clubs is giving us raw talent, even to fine-tune our talent,” said Khura Buthelezi – Vice President of KZN Athletics.
The championships also served as a platform for national team hopefuls who hail from KZN, with ambitions of following in the footsteps of South African Olympics athlete, Zakithi Nene.
“We are no longer just participants, but contenders for medals. When we go to nationals, with the times that we’re doing here, I’m very confident that on the 6th of September in Mpumalanga, we are going there to position ourselves for bronze, silver, and gold.” stated Buthelezi.
