Onalenna Khonkhobe targets the Two Oceans Marathon title

His primary focus lies on conquering the challenging Two Oceans 56km ultra-marathon in Cape Town come 13 April, followed by the esteemed Soweto Marathon 42.2km event in November.

Despite securing a commendable sixth-place finish in his debut Two Oceans last year with a time of 3 hours, 12 minutes, and 57 seconds, the 28-year-old is determined to ascend to the top spot this time around.

Drawing from his experiences, Khonkhobe is eager the lessons learned and emerge victorious during the month of Freedom on the South African calendar in the Mother City.   

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With unwavering confidence in his team at the Nedbank Running Club, he believes they will provide him with the ideal support preparation needed to triumph in the upcoming ultra-marathon.

“I’ll be participating in Two Oceans, and my goal is to clinch victory in the race. As part of my preparations, I have a marathon and a shorter-distance race lined up. Naturally, there are nerves involved in your first race, but I’ve gained valuable insights from that experience. I’m fully prepared to give it my all once more, aiming to go the distance and secure the win in the ultra-hopefully with a faster time,” Khonkhobe revealed in an interview with the national broadcaster.

“I’m setting my sights on claiming the Soweto Marathon title, eager to secure a major victory in Soweto. Training alongside David Manja and Joel Mmone, and approaching my 28th birthday in April, I’m hopeful to mark the occasion with a win at the Two Oceans Marathon.

“My hunger to triumph in the Tow Oceans is fuelled by the recognition gained from my sixth-place finish. My focus for the race is solely on my performance, disregarding any competition from Zimbabwe or Lesotho.  With a well-crafted strategy and unwavering belief in my abilities, I am determined to emerge victorious in the ultra.

“I approach the challenge with confidence and determination, aiming to bring pride to my club this year,” declared Khonkhobe.