Mokoka eyes top prize in Shanghai

China race brings in dollars – coach

The Shanghai International Marathon is where Stephen Mokoka’s bread is buttered.

This is how coach Michael Sponge Seme explained his charge’s love affair with the China marathon, which has been a happy hunting ground for the 32-year-old runner.

Mokoka will bid for a record fourth title in the 42km contest at the Asian city on Sunday.

“Every time Stephen goes there, he doesn’t gamble because Shanghai is serious business for him from the financial point of view,” said Seme.

“He is fortunate because he goes there on invitation and he’s guaranteed an appearance fee,” the coach added.

Seme could not divulge more on the details of the contract but Shanghai champions get $45 000 (R638 000) and there is a $10 000 bonus for setting a new course record.

The race attracts a field of about 38 000 runners.

Mokoka wrapped up his preparations in the Soweto Marathon last Sunday.

He has not cracked it much in international competitions this season.

He finished 20th in the 10 000m at the IAAF World Championships in London in August.

Going into Shanghai on Sunday, the reigning African 10 000m champion would also hope to put behind the disappointment of the Tokyo Marathon early this year.

He finished 36th at the Japan race that marked his debut in a world major marathon.