BY NONTSETSELELO DLAMINI (INTERN)
MBABANE– Eighteen-year-old(18) Musa Mndzebele emerged victorious in the demanding 5 000 metres race at KaBoyce High School after an impressive performance over eight gruelling laps of the track.
Mndzebele, who was competing in the long-distance event for the first time, showed determination and endurance as he crossed the finish line ahead of the field. The young athlete said his victory came as a result of consistent training and strong self-belief before the race even began.
“I prepared myself through training and I believed from the beginning that I could win,” said Mndzebele after the race.
The 5 000 metres event, which consists of eight rounds around the track, tested the stamina of all participating athletes. Despite being new to the distance, Mndzebele maintained a steady pace throughout the race and managed to stay ahead of his competitors.
The KaBoyce High learner explained that most of his previous preparation involved running shorter distances during training sessions, including 1.5 metres runs, which helped build his speed and endurance. He noted that the step up to 5 000 metres was challenging but also motivating.
“This was my first time running the 5 000 metres, but I knew I could push myself further,” he said. “I believe I can even do more than this distance.”
However, the race was not without its challenges. Mndzebele admitted that he struggled during the water break points along the race, which briefly disrupted his rhythm. Despite the difficulty, he managed to regain his focus and continue pushing forward until the finish line.
“The hardest part was the water breaks because they slowed me down a bit, but I stayed focused and continued running,” he said.
Teachers and spectators at KaBoyce High applauded the athletes for their effort and sportsmanship during the long-distance race, which was one of the highlights of the school’s athletics activities.
Mndzebele’s victory has already sparked excitement among fellow learners, with many praising his determination and discipline in preparing for the race.
With his first 5 000 metres race now behind him, the young runner believes this is only the beginning of his journey in long-distance running and is hopeful that he can achieve even greater distances in future competitions.
#KaBoyceHigh#SchoolSports#YoungAthletes#LongDistanceRunning
