The Durban International Marathon is delighted for 2024 winners Elroy Gelant and Cian Oldknow who are both heading to the 2024 Paris Olympics to represent Team South Africa.
They will be joined by former winners, Isaac Mpofu and Tebogo Ramakongoana are also in Paris to compete at the Summer Games
This momentous achievement is a testament to the importance of the marathon as a breeding ground and platform for talented athletes.
“We are over the moon to see our winners selected to represent South Africa at the Olympics,” said Steve Mkasi, chairman of the Durban International Marathon LOC.
“This is a proud moment for us, and we are thrilled that our event has played a role in their journey to the biggest stage in athletics. The Durban International Marathon has a history of producing top-class athletes.”
Gelant clocked an impressive 2:09:32 to win the men’s title back in April.
He then went on to claim victory in the SA half-marathon championship in Gqeberha finishing in 1:03:54 in challenging cold and wet weather conditions. He once again demonstrated his wide skillset by running a new personal best of 27:47 in the 10km Absa Run Your City event in Durban last weekend.
Oldknow, who won the women’s title in 2:29:46 is regarded as one of the brightest talents in the sport. Having clocked a remarkable 2:25:08 on marathon debut in Seville in February, she is primed to evolve in the coming years.
Mpofu won the race back in 2022 and will compete in the colours of Zimbabwe. Ramakongoana who could not defend his title this year due to his participation abroad has been a revelation in recent months, running in Japan and America.
The 27 years will represent Lesotho at the Summer Games.
“Our race is now recognized as a key stop on the road to international competitions, providing athletes with a competitive platform to test their skills and prepare for bigger stages,” Mkasi said.
Gelant and Oldknow will join Stephen Mokoka and Gerda Steyn in Team South Africa’s marathon team.
“We look forward to watching our former winners compete at the highest level. Their selection is a source of pride for us all, and we wish them well,” Mkasi added.
The Paris Olympics Marathon will be staged on 10 August 2024.
