Elroy Gelant to adjust his schedule following sudden Olympic qualification

The highly anticipated global event is set to take place in Paris from 26 July to 11 August, with the men’s marathon scheduled for the day before the conclusion of the Games.

Gelant is set to compete in the Absa Run Your City series in Durban on 7 July, due to his Olympic inclusion, he may withdraw from the 10km event next month.

"Changed things a little in terms of how I will approach Durban but I still need to discuss it with my coach in terms of how we will approach the Durban leg because obviously the Olympics Marathon is on the 10th of August that's about a month after Durban,” Gelant said.

“So, I just need to be strategic about how I will approach the Durban leg. It's difficult to answer now, obviously probably by next week I will have an answer because we still need to look at my training. 10 weeks up to the Olympics or 10 weeks up to race day so that will have an influence on the Durban leg in terms of my approach."

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After Athletics South Africa submitted a motivational letter to World Athletics, Gelant secured his position as the 83rd-ranked athlete in the world rankings.

This appeal led to World Athletics expanding the Marathon quota from 80 to 85 runners.

"Qualifying for the Olympics is an incredible achievement which showcases my consistency and talent as a runner. Representing our country for the third time at the Olympics is a true honour and it's a testament to my dedication to the sport over the years. It will be another great opportunity to showcase my abilities on the world stage and make my country proud again."