Siphelele Nketo
A GROUP of runners in the Alfred Nzo district have decided not to wait any longer to honour the Mbizana-based athlete Aphelele Nkonyeni.
On June 16 in KwaBhaca (Mount Frere), they will offer compliments and show appreciation, love and recognition to Nkonyeni for his dedication to the sport of running.
Born and bred in the rural village of KwaMpisi in Mbizana, Nkonyeni has bagged a number of medals including the silver medal he won in the 2017 SA School Championships Track and Field 3000M steeplechase.
In 2023 he won another silver medal in the Athletics South Africa (ASA) Track and Field 3000M steeplechase, followed by a bronze medal in the ASA Track and Field 3000M steeplechase in 2024.
Last year, he won two gold medals in the ASA Track and Field 3000M steeplechase and Track and Field Continental Invitational 3000m steeplechase.
In April, he won two silver medals at the ASA Track and Field 3000M steeplechase as well as Track and Field SA Varsity Games 3000m steeplechase.
In speaking to the Post, the public management student at the Nelson Mandela University said that he grew up in a family of social runners. But his love for running amplified when he was 10 years old, during his primary school days.
He said he received sponsorship for his running journey that ended in 2025. He currently runs for Madibaz Athletics Club, based at the Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha. Organisers for the appreciation event said that the event will start with a 21km run as a show of good faith to Nkonyeni. Organiser Luyanda Mgoduka said that the event is not only aimed at expressing gratitude towards Nkonyeni, but encourages more young people to get involved in sports activities.
“People who continue to stand tall despite difficulties deserve to be celebrated and appreciated. Nkonyeni’s achievements will be acknowledged on that day with a 21km run and other activities,” Mgoduka said. There will be no fee for the 21km run in KwaBhaca.
