The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Under-23, 10 km record holder, Philasande Mlambo, has made history once again. He is now the 4th fastest man in South African racewalking history over 10 000 metres. Mlambo achieved this remarkable feat with a time of 42:00.75 at the recent KZN Athletics League 4, held at Kings Park Stadium in Durban.

Mlambo, who is currently pursuing a Diploma in Information and Communications Technology: Business Analysis at DUT, described this achievement as one of the greatest milestones of his career.

“To be in the national history book is huge for more. This is big for me, for the institution and the province. I am happy and I feel motivated to achieve more and hopefully become the fastest racewalking man in South Africa,’’ he explained.

For Mlambo who hails from a small town called Dundee in KwaZulu-Natal, winning alone is always not enough, wherever he competes he always aim to make history.

“Working with one coach throughout my journey at DUT helps me to overcome some challenges that I counter. Sihle Shange plays a vital role in shaping my athletic passion and his presence has enlightened me to view the world with differently. My consistence to gym has been rewarding to me and I will keep on choosing gym as the DUT promotes fitness and well-being of its community,” Mlambo added.

His impressive competition resume includes Thembisa Mile race back-to-back win in Johannesburg in his two appearances. The Athletics South Africa (ASA) racewalking Championships and Olympics teams. He also participated in the KwaZulu-Natal Seniors Champs race in Pietermaritzburg where he shattered the record with a remarkable finishing time of 45: 20: 27.

The KZN record holder also hopes his achievement serves as the inspiration to the young and upcoming athletes that anything is possible wherever you come from.He also added the DUT living values that resonates with him which are honesty, integrity, transparent and respect. He mentioned being honest with himself helps him a lot to be motivated to perform well on the field.

“I just hope my success inspires other young athletes within the DUT community like me and proves that regardless of your background if you work hard your dreams are achievable,’’ he concluded.

He is currently preparing for the upcoming Athletics Gauteng North (AGN) League 4 on Saturday, 1 March 2025 in Pretoria at Pildicth Stadium.

Pictured: Philasande Mlambo the 4th fastest man in South African Racewalking history in the 10 000 metres.

Vukani Langa