Mikia Kalati
LESOTHO Amateur Athletics Association (LAAA) has praised Nomakoe Nkhasi for winning back-to-back 10km races at the Old Mutual Cape Town marathon and the inaugural Joburg marathon held over the last two weekends respectively.
In Saturday’s Joburg marathon, Nkhasi beat Stephen Mokoka, Sibusiso Nzima and Elroy Gelant who all represented South Africa at the recent Rio Olympics in Brazil.
LAAA public relations officer Sejanamane Maphathe said they were impressed by the manner in which Nkhasi continued to develop as an athlete.
“He seems to be very motivated after participating at the Olympics which was also a good platform for him to have a feel of competing at the biggest stage,” Maphathe said.
“I have no doubt the boy is headed for greatness and one of these good days he will achieve something big for the country.
“All that is left is for him to go abroad on a scholarship that will prepare him for the next Olympic Games.”
Maphathe expressed confidence Nkhasi would be part of Team Lesotho at next year’s World Championships in London, England.
“He got the feel of running against top runners such as Mo Farah in the 5 000km and 10 000 km races at the recent Olympics so he will know what to expect at the World Championships next year,” Maphathe said.
“Unfortunately due to financial constraints, we couldn’t take him to the IAAF Diamond League series that have been taking place since the Olympics because it could have been good for his development as well.
“The season is coming to an end as far as the big global races are concerned but I am sure he will keep himself busy taking part in the South African races,” he said.
Maphathe also said the LAAA will hold elections during the last weekend of October to elect a new six-member committee that will lead the association going forward.
For his part, Nkhasi said he was delighted to have won the Joburg race.
“The race was very tough and I had to work very hard to win it,” Nkhasi said, adding, “I was competing against top runners and it was a good win.”
