Mokoka eyes Masters world record – and R100k – in Durban 10K bid
Image: Action Photo
As if Stephen Mokoka needed more motivation to run the race of his life at the next instalment of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, the organisers have added extra fuel to the legendary runner's fire.
Now, the Hollywood Athletics Club star has an additional 100 000 reasons to break the Masters 10km world record when he lines up at the Durban event next month. Mokoka has long made his intention clear to usurp Bernard Lagat as the fastest over-40 runner in the distance and will make his attempt on 13 July.
His quest has now been given further impetus by organisers Stillwater Sports, who have dangled a R100 000 carrot as incentive for him to dip under the 27:48 mark that Lagat ran in Manchester a decade ago.
'The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has always strived to create a platform for our local athletes to shine on home soil and to incentivise exceptional performances,' said Michael Meyer, managing director of Stillwater Sports and Series founder.
'When Mokoka shared his goal of breaking the Masters world record earlier this year, we knew we wanted to support him in a meaningful way.
'Stephen has been a strong supporter of the series since its inaugural event in 2015. The R100 000 incentive is our way of showing appreciation, while recognising both his ambition and his remarkable contribution to South African road running.
"It would be an honour to celebrate such a monumental achievement with Stephen right here in Durban, on July 13.'
Mokoka has gleefully welcomed the incentive.
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'The opportunities we get through the series truly make our lives easier,' said Mokoka.
'To break the record, Bernard Lagat had to travel all the way from America to run in Manchester, UK. So, I'm thankful to have an opportunity like this on home soil – especially now, with the younger guys performing so well over 10km. These days, you can't get onto a podium with a 28:10 easily.
'A platform of this magnitude excites me, and I'm looking forward to what lies ahead.'
Mokoka certainly has it in him to break the record – a mark set in a race he participated in. He has often recalled how he had to push hard in the Great Manchester Run to avoid being beaten by 'a 40-year-old', ultimately finishing just ten seconds ahead of Lagat, who was second.
Most recently, he ran a 28:06 to finish third at the Cape Town leg of the popular series in May. Now, he is putting the final touches on his preparation alongside his long-time coach, the revered Michael 'Sponge' Seme, after a tough outing at the TotalSports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon.
'My coach decided I had to go back to the drawing board. It's not easy, but I've got young guys at UJ in the Sponge Group who are doing a great job of burning my chest and legs,' Mokoka laughed.
'It's also been great to visit other groups. At Zoo (the Zoo Lake group of Hendrick Ramaala), the course is tough – nine laps gave me 400m of elevation. I can see why the Precious Masheles and Chris Mhlangas are so strong on the hills.
'With the way I'm training now, I'm hopeful. I'll be grateful for whatever comes, but hopefully, the weather in the City of Ethekwini plays along – and I can get that Masters record.'
And, of course, swell his bank balance by that cool R100 000.
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