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LEBOPO EYES LONDON MARATHON |
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Lesotho's top long distance runner Mabothile Lebopo, latest winner of the
Old Mutual Soweto 42.2 km marathon has his eyes focus on overseas events in
the new year, depending on negotiations between his coach and international
agents. The 30 year old Lebopo who ran the race not knowing that his three month old daughter Relebohile had just died, covered the distance at 2:18:05, beating over 30 000 athletes from all over the world, including two time champion Elijah Mutandiro from Zimbabwe. Lebopo said he is ready to represent the country anywhere, any time, all over the world provided conditions are suitable. His coach is negotiating with an overseas agent about the possibility of him participating in one of the best known races in the world, he said. The runner was quick to counter criticism that he was not patriotic, refusing to take part in a recent trip to India, by reminding his detractors that he was a full time athlete without no other means of a livelihood. Lebopo's coach Aaron Mohloli was ecstatic about his charge's performance, saying there is an abundance of talent in the country which need only to be unearthed. He gave as examples athletes 'Mamoroallo Tjoka, who was fourth in the Old Mutual Soweto marathon's women's category on her debut race and, Tsotang Maine who he said he was trying to sign as member. 10 November 2004 |
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