Female long-distance sensation ‘Neheng Khatala, solidified her place among the country’s sporting icons after smashing the national 10-kilometre record at the recent prestigious Totalsports Women’s Race in Durban, South Africa.
Khatala clocked an impressive 31:05, blending power and precision to carve her name into Lesotho’s athletics history.
However, despite her record-breaking run, Khatala only managed a fourth-place finish in a highly competitive race featuring some of Africa’s top talents.
Kenya’s Christine Njoki took first place with a blistering 30:14, setting a new all-comers’ record for the Durban event.
Yet, it was Khatala’s performance that resonated deeply back in the Mountain Kingdom, stirring national pride.
“It was a moment of immense joy and gratitude,” Khatala told Newsday Sports in an emotional post-race interview.
“All the hard work, sacrifice, and discipline poured into my training culminated in that race,” she added. The 32-year-old Olympian said her performance held meaning beyond personal achievement.
“I was running not only for myself but for all the young girls back home in Lesotho. I hope they see what is possible with determination and commitment,” she said.
Khatala’s strategy was a lesson in patience and execution. She held back at the start, conserving energy while the front pack surged ahead, then gradually picked up her pace to finish strong.
“With such a strong field, staying calm and focused was key. I aimed to remain relaxed during the early kilometers and gradually build rhythm as the race progressed.”
Her preparation was equally deliberate, focused on consistent training, disciplined recovery, and a strict nutrition plan. Tailored speed-endurance sessions rounded off her race buildup.
“This race was a critical test of my readiness, and I followed my training plan meticulously. It paid off in a big way.”
Khatala’s feat has been celebrated as a major milestone for Lesotho athletics.
Nkoebe Makhalemele, Public Relations Officer of the Federation of Athletics Lesotho (FAL), described the performance as historic.
“Neheng’s achievement is a proud moment for Lesotho athletics,” he said. “She has already qualified for the upcoming World Championships in Japan this September, making her the only athlete from our country to secure a spot at this prestigious global event.”
Makhalemele also pointed to the rise of other promising athletes, including Tebello Ramakongoana, who is preparing to represent Lesotho in Australia.
With her focus now shifting to the marathon at the World Championships, Khatala is ramping up preparations. Known for her endurance and sharp racing instincts over the 42.2km distance, she is expected to be a strong contender.
“I believe there is still much more I can achieve,” she said. “This record is just the beginning. I am excited for the challenges and opportunities ahead.”
From the gravel roads of Ha-Monaheng to the world stage, Khatala’s journey is one of grit, vision, and unwavering commitment.
“Your background does not define your future,” she told aspiring athletes. “With hard work, faith, and discipline, it is possible to rise from even the most rural villages to compete on the biggest stages in the world.”
Summary
- Despite her record-breaking run, Khatala only managed a fourth-place finish in a highly competitive race featuring some of Africa’s top talents.
- “She has already qualified for the upcoming World Championships in Japan this September, making her the only athlete from our country to secure a spot at this prestigious global event.
- “With hard work, faith, and discipline, it is possible to rise from even the most rural villages to compete on the biggest stages in the world.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
