Phalulas, Nyahora face off on Heritage Day

THE FNB Joburg 10K City Run will see twin sisters Lebo and Lebogang Phalula and Rutendo Nyahora renew their rivalry on Saturday.

The trio have met on various occasions this year, particularly over the 10km distance. Lebo and Nyahora also faced off in the Rio Olympics in Brazil in the marathon, where the South African came out tops of the Zimbabwean runner, clocking 2:41.46 to Nyahora’s 2:47.32.

The two have secured some impressive results since their return from Rio.

Nyahora won the Spar ladies race in Pretoria on September 3, where Lebo came second. Lebo also finished second in the 10km race at the Cape Town Marathon (33:25) where Lebogang made debut in the 42km.

All three are looking forward to Saturday and the renewal of the rivalry that has been going on for more than five years. “I have unfinished business in the shorter races,” warned Lebo.

“The Joburg 10K is where I expect to run a good time. After Cape Town I know that I am in good shape.”

Nyahora said: “The Olympics are a month behind us and I am in good shape after my win in Pretoria.

“It will be good to race against the Phalula sisters. They always go out hard and push the pace from the gun, but I am confident that I can take them on and even beat them.”

While both Lebo and Nyahora have had time to recover from the Olympic marathon and should line up with fresher legs, Lebogang is not worried. “I have taken it very easy since Sunday and know that I have the strength and endurance after my marathon training. I know I can hold the pace for long.”

With R20 000 on offer for the first lady across the line, the race is set to be tough.

The race starts at FNB Bank City in the city centre and finishes at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown.