SA 10km record holder Precious Mashele to transition into marathon next season

Mashele secured his second national title in Mbombela with 29 minutes and 12 seconds, marking a significant milestone since his initial victory in Middleburg back in 2019.

The 33-year-old athlete hailing from Limpopo, Mashele not only clinched the championships but also holds the current national 10km record, clocking 27:35 in July, surpassing the previous record set by Stephen Mokoka in 2015.

“Our coach, Hendrick Ramaala, has generously granted us a well-deserved two-week break, and we’re set to regroup at Zoo Lake on 1 December for a training camp. I’m taking this opportunity to cherish some quality time with my family in Limpopo after what has felt like an arduous year. Wrapping up the season triumphantly with the national 10km title brings me immense joy. Looking ahead to the coming year, I have ambitious plans to step into the world of marathon running. I’m fortunate to have a dedicated training group that includes accomplished runners like Ntsindiso Mphakathi to support me in pursuing this endeavor. I firmly believe I have the capability to conquer the challenging 42.2km distance; all that’s required is unrewarding dedication and redoubling of my efforts,” shared Mashele during his interview with SABC Sport from his home in Limpopo.

Nevertheless, before embarking on his maiden marathon, Mashele will redirect his attention towards securing a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games for the 5000m event.

He faces the challenge of achieving a qualifying time of 13 minutes and 7 seconds to secure his place on the team.

“Following the Olympic Games, my aim is to tackle my inaugural marathons, ideally taking on two or three next year. Collaborating with my training partners Maxim Chaumeton, Kabelo Mulaudzi, and Ryan Mphalele – all vying for the 5000m qualification in Paris – we’re focused on surpassing the required time. To accomplish this, rigorous training and self-organized races, with well-paced markers, are essential. I’ve also committed to participating in the ASA nationals championships and the Absa races making the upcoming year a bustling one for me and my teammates,” Mashele detailed regarding his upcoming season’s plans.

READ: Coach Hendrick Ramaala is conjuring up success with his training group at Zoo Lake