Johannes proves she is one of the best
HELALIA JOHANNES has hailed her coach Robert Kaxuxuena as one of the best in the world.
Speaking after her record-breaking victory in the Port Elizabeth leg of the Spar 10km Women’s Grand Prix Series on Saturday, the Namibian speedster waxed lyrical about the man behind her success.
“The preparations for this excellent year with Robert were great. It shows in the results that we keep getting. I would like to thank him for the support he has given me. I think he is one of the best in the world. I rate him highly. We will continue to work hard as a team. He will tell me what is next from here. I would also like to thank my training partners,” said Johannes.
The Namibian ran one of the fastest times for women in South Africa when she won in 31:50. It was one of the fastest times ever on South African soil behind the 31:33 of Elana Meyer in 1991 in Durban.
The 38-year-old has had a brilliant season so far, setting a new national record for her country when she won Nagoya Marathon Japan with 2:22:25 early this year.
She also set the new record in half marathon when she ran 1:10:30. Her victory on Saturday also meant she broke her own 10km Namibian record.
Johannes is now aiming at the World Marathon Championships in September following her victory in Port Elizabeth.
“I want to do well in World Championship in September and make my country proud,” said Johannes.
She is not sure about running all six races of Grand Prix in South Africa.
“Like I said my coach will tell me which races will follow. I cannot say I will run all six races.”
She also praised the other runners that finished behind her.
“They are brilliant runners also. They gave me a tough challenge. It was good competition but because I train with people of the same age as them at home they did not give me tough times.
“To me age is just a number. It is not a barrier at all.
“Port Elizabeth is good city with nice weather. I like it here. It is beautiful with nice weather. It was great one even today.
“I am happy that I ran my best time in 10km and make the new national record for my country,” said Johannes.
The next leg of the Grand Prix will be run in Cape Town later this month.