Karabo Mailula gears up for World Cross Country Champs in Serbia

This comes after her second place finish at the Athletics South Africa (ASA) championships.

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As the reigning ASA Cross Country champion, Mailula showcased her prowess with a commendable time of 34 minutes and 35 seconds, trailing behind the five-time South African champion, Glenrose Xaba, who finished in 33 minutes.

 Anticipating her third major international competition, Mailula draws inspiration from her performance at Marks Park Sports Centre in Johannesburg, confident that it will propel her towards success in Serbia.

''Yes, I have been preparing for cross country and I think I'm ready for it. I recently ran cross country and came first with a PB, it was 33.04,'' said Mailula.

Every year, Mailula demonstrates remarkable progress in the national 10km competition.

Transitioning from third to second place, she’s steadily solidifying her presence as a formidable contender in South African road running, all at the youthful age of 21.

With her positive mindset towards the sport, Mailula is poised for a promising future ahead.

''According to my consistency with running the 10km, I feel so happy especially with achieving second place, it was tough and challenging but I accepted that and managed to come 2nd,'' added Mailula.

Mailula will return to the training grounds to prepare for the upcoming event in Serbia.

Speaking to SABC Sport, she confirmed that she will not be participating in any events before the World Championships.

''For now, from here, I don't think I will run any other races again - I am going to prepare for cross country,'' she concluded.

Her biggest wish is to exceed her Personal Best time of 33 minutes and 46 seconds in the 10km race this year.