By Adnaan Mohamed
Neheng Khatala has done the hard kilometres. Now she wants the reward.
Fresh from an impressive fifth-place finish at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K, the Lesotho 10km record holder believes she is perfectly placed to challenge for top honours at Totalsports Women’s Race on Sunday, 2 August 2026.
The confidence is measured rather than loud, shaped by months of disciplined preparation and sharpened on one of Africa’s deepest elite fields only weeks ago.
“If I execute my race plan well, I believe a great result will follow,” Khatala said.
“Every race is an opportunity to improve, and I want to make the most of it.”
Durban’s fast and flat route has become a magnet for personal bests, with its sweeping beachfront roads often rewarding athletes brave enough to commit from the opening kilometres. The Hollywood Athletics Club athlete hopes it will provide another platform to showcase her growing pedigree.
Her ambitions stretch beyond the finish line.
For the 10km Lesotho national record holder, the Totalsports Women’s Race represents a celebration of women united by a shared passion for running.
“It shows the power of women supporting and inspiring one another,” she said.
“Running brings us together regardless of where we come from or our backgrounds. It is an honour to be part of an event that celebrates strength, resilience and unity.”
Khatala says her greatest rival is the athlete she was yesterday.
“My biggest motivation is becoming the best version of myself. Every race teaches me something new. Growth comes through consistency and hard work.”
She also hopes her journey encourages newcomers to chase their own goals.
“Believe in yourself, be patient with your progress and never compare your journey to anyone else’s. Every champion started with a single step.”
The atmosphere in Durban could also play a decisive role.
“Crowd support always gives me an extra boost. Hearing people cheer helps me find another gear when the race gets tough.”
Victory would carry special significance.
“It would make my family, supporters and my country, Lesotho, proud while motivating me to chase even bigger goals.”
Stillwater Sports Managing Director Michael Meyer believes Khatala is primed for another strong display.
“We look forward to seeing her showcase her talent on this world-class course alongside thousands of women celebrating the joy of running.”
Totalsports Head of Marketing Nikki Crous believes Khatala’s presence adds another layer of quality to an already exciting elite field.
“As one of Africa’s leading distance runners, Neheng’s participation will inspire women of all ages and abilities.”
When the starter’s gun echoes along Durban’s beachfront on Sunday morning, Khatala will not be chasing the clock alone. She will be chasing another step towards becoming one of Africa’s leading road-running names.