10th May 2024
At the age of 39, Gelant continues to compete at a high level, having recently clinched three podium spots, including a silver in the Gqeberha 10km, a silver at the Athletics South Africa Senior Championships in the 10 000m, and a gold medal in the marathon championships in April.
With his eyes firmly on the prize, Gelant is confident of securing another top-three this weekend in a short space of two months.
''It is definitely not easy, I think it comes down to the discipline and consistency over the years but also a renewed mindset that I adapted - especially for the Olympic year,'' said Gelant.
Featuring an impressive group of elite athletes, including top runners such as Stephen Mokoka, Kabelo Mulaudzi, Vincent Langat, winner of the Gqeberha 10km, and Precious Mashele, the SA 10km record holder, Gelant anticipates a fast race.
He aims to complete the course in under 28 minutes to secure another spot on the podium.
''Like I said I'm really positive regarding my preparation leading up to the Absa 10km race, I'm positive that I can hit a sub 28 this coming Sunday,'' added Gelant.
Gelant finds himself as an in-from athlete and is enjoying the best spell of his life as an athlete, and it comes as no shock to him that he enters the upcoming weekend’s race as the favourite, with the winner set to claim a purse of R30 000.
Speaking to SABC Sport, Gelant attributed his form and status as the favourite to his unwavering work ethic.