Johannesburg’s streets turned into a battleground on Saturday as South Africa’s finest lined up against East African pace at the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K.
Hollywood Joburg 10K start. Photo: Adnaan Mohamed
Kenya’s Frida Ndinda, 24, claimed the women’s crown in 35:18, holding off ultra-marathon queen Gerda Steyn, who clocked 35:52 for second. Tuks youngster Karabo Mailula (36:12) completed the podium.
For Steyn, a four-time Comrades and six-time Two Oceans champion, the 10K was less about silverware and more about sharpening speed ahead of next month’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.
“The race went off so fast, I decided to hold back early,” she said.
“I worked my way through, got into second, and could see the leader, but ran out of road. I’m very happy with how strong I felt.”
The men’s race was a very different story. Thabang Mosiako, South Africa’s half-marathon champion, blasted from the gun and never looked back, storming to victory in 29:45.
Thabang Mosiako Photo: Hollywood AC
National marathon champion Bennet Seloyi (30:00) was second, with the evergreen Stephen Mokoka (30:04) in third.
“I told myself I’m going from the start,” Mosiako said.
“With guys like Stephen, you can’t wait…this madala doesn’t want to get old.
“Breaking 30 here was a surprise, but it shows my shape is coming back.”
For Steyn, it was a steady tune-up. For Mosiako, a statement of intent. And for Joburg, another reminder that the city’s streets remain a proving ground for champions.
