This is a phenomenal achievement. It is common knowledge that cross-country is the backbone of middle and long distance running. Hendrick Ramaala, Shadrack Hoff, Enoch Skosona (Nedbank Running Club Development), Gert Thys, Paul Tergat all cut their teeth on cross country running before moving to the Road and Marathons.

So the news that the Soweto Club is sending a massive amount of athletes is very promising according to Club Manager, Nick Bester. “South Africa has so much talent in the middle and long distances. Cross Country is vital to the development of those athletes so we are very encouraged to see that the Soweto Club alone is sending a big group of athletes. What is even more encouraging, is that a big portion comes from the Junior, Youth, Sub Youth and younger age groups.”

No less than TWELWE athletes come from the Junior and below ranks, testament to the work being done by Siyaya and his crew in Soweto. “Soweto has so many kids who can run. And when we ask them to come run with us, they are keen,” says Siyaya Khoza, Soweto Running Club Manager.

With CGA’s selection policy stating that only 6 athletes per age group can represent the province, Nedbank Soweto Club have decided to enter a number of athletes as individuals. Of the 33 athletes going to the National Championships, 8 will run as individuals; six of those are under the age of 14, testament to the commitment of the Nedbank Running Club.