Chasing Glory with Makhosi Mhlongo!

Mhlongo who loved running while she was still in school says dreams do come true if you work hard and focus on what you do.

She said when she was still in school her coach told her that she would go far with running and since then her life changed.

“I started doing races in my junior years. I would win some and sometimes I would be placed in the top three, that is where I started getting the money.

“Everything changed when I met Blanche Moila who told me that I am talented and I can go far. She shared her lifetime achievements with me and inspired me,” she said.

She said the life of an athlete is the same as the farmer’s life, as it has seasons and you reap fruits of your own hard work.

“All you need to do is to keep working hard, get a professional coach and most importantly focus on your goal of being a champion. You do this by adopting discipline in everything you do.

“You need to enjoy and love your running as this will help to persist and persevere through all obstacles along your journey and not allow any distractions. Get your priorities straight especially when you engage in a romantic relationship. Do not lose focus, have values and principles that will guide you not to deviate from their mission.”

Mhlongo added that they should cut away everything that does not add any value to them and never be too hard on themselves.

She said there are many opportunities for women to succeed in athletics because the information and resources are more accessible compared to previous times.

“They need to commend themselves for each progress, pursue challenges in life or obstacles in running and never lose hope.”

Talking about her journey she said there are challenges but she always keeps a positive mindset and starts every day with a prayer.

“One of the challenges that I encounter when running is when my tummy randomly acts up while I am on routes and there are no toilets.”