A well-known local athlete, Mr Bethuel Netshifhefhe, was unanimously elected the chairperson of the Thulamela Runners Association during a meeting that was held at the Thohoyandou Indoor Sports Centre last Saturday morning.

Mr Nditsheni Mathobo was elected deputy chairperson. The general secretary is Mr Sam Munyai, who will be assisted by Ms Joyce Makwarela. Ms Makhadzi Madi is the new treasurer. Emmanuel Matumba is the organiser of the association, while Mr Mulalo Ravele was elected the road-running facilitator. The track and field facilitator is Andrew Mavhona, while Mr Balanganani Mafhege is the cross-country facilitator.

According to Mr Matumba, some of the issues which are high on the association’s shopping list include the acquiring of sponsorships for the runners and to organize the annual awards for the runners.

Matumba further indicated that they would once again ensure that they staged development races and talent scouting events regularly as a way to promote the sport. Matumba further indicated that their preparations for the annual Soweto Marathon were at an advanced stage.

According to him, Bethuel Netshifhefhe, Joyce Makwarela, Sam Munyai, Jane Mudau and Nditsheni Mathobo will take part in the Soweto Marathon. It will will be staged during the first weekend of next month.