By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – A rising star from QwaQwa, 17-year old runner Khatliso Nkomo, is set to represent his province at the national cross-country championships in Mpumalanga on October 4, after an impressive run of performances on the track.
Nkomo first turned heads at the Kgola Thuto Secondary School league, where he powered through the 4km race to secure a silver medal. He went on to claim bronze at district level and capped off his provincial campaign with a hard-fought sixth-place finish. That effort was enough to book his ticket to the national stage, where he will line up against South Africa’s elite young athletes.
The achievement has sparked pride across his community. Tsebo High School teacher Tshepiso Senyane said the school is rallying behind him.
“Khatliso’s journey has shown what determination and focus can achieve. We couldn’t be prouder,” Senyane said.
His coach, Mannoi Tsotetsi, praised Nkomo’s dedication. “He has made me and the school proud by reaching this level in his sporting career. It is a reward for his discipline and hard work,” she said.
For Nkomo, the road to nationals has been one of perseverance and sacrifice. Despite challenges faced by many young athletes in under-resourced communities, he has managed to rise through the ranks, carrying with him the hopes of QwaQwa.
As the countdown begins to October 4, the region will be watching closely, hopeful that their young runner will make his mark on the national stage – and prove once again that QwaQwa talent can compete with the best.
