As the reigning national Cross-Country champion, Mulaudzi is targeting another podium finish at the Joburg 10km on September 24, where he placed second last year.

He secured a second-place finish in Durban in July and took third in Tshwane two weeks ago.

A podium finish in Johannesburg would mark a successful year in road running for the dedicated athlete.

Mulaudzi and his coach, Richard Meyer, have already begun their preparations for the race on national braai day.

Last year, Mulaudzi claimed victory at the Run Your City races in Durban with a time under 28 minutes and won the Tshwane 10km run.

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He believes he remains in the same top form that enabled him to dominate the series last year.

“My goal is to finish the year strong. While defending my Cross-Country title is a priority, clinching the Absa Joburg would be the ultimate bonus. I’m still the same athlete as last year, in peak physical condition and mentally focused,” said Mulaudzi, who clocked a personal best of 27 minutes and 53 seconds with a second-place finish in Durban this July.

The 26-year-old runner from Alexandra clocked 29:12 in Tshwane and aims to surpass this performance in the upcoming road race in Joburg.

"I'm pleased with my time in Tshwane and grateful to my coach for my progress," Mulaudzi said.

"I had a knee injury, but thanks to the recovery program my coach designed, I'm back on track. The Joburg race is challenging with its numerous hills, but our current training gives me confidence that we can handle it."

Finished Nepal in United States of America T20I Series