Pretoria’s thriving athletic community witnessed an impressive display of talent as Charles Soza, a renowned road race athlete, emerged victorious at the renowned Fedhealth Platinum Trail Run held at ATKV Buffelspoort last weekend. Soza, a member of the esteemed Nedbank club, showcased his versatility by excelling in the realm of trail running.
The highly anticipated Fedhealth Platinum Trail Run, commemorating its 10th anniversary in 2023, proved to be a delightful event for the entire family. Offering a diverse range of options, participants could choose from four exciting races: the challenging Long Route spanning approximately 24 kilometers, the Short Route covering around 12 kilometers, the Fun Run encompassing approximately 8 kilometers, and the Kids Event, a 2.5-kilometer race tailored for the youngest runners.
Soza’s exceptional performance unfolded during the Long Route event, where he conquered the demanding course with an impressive time of 01 hour 27 minutes 48 seconds. Reflecting on the race, Soza admitted, “The course was tough.” In preparation, he diligently studied the course on Saturday, strategizing for the challenges ahead. Aware of his weakness in climbing, he focused on creating a substantial lead during the downhill stretches. Although the other runners caught up during uphill climbs, Soza unleashed his full potential on the subsequent descents to regain his advantage. Determined to secure victory, he sprinted towards the finish line upon receiving confirmation from a cyclist that the challenging hill section was finally behind him. The new champion concluded, “The course is very tough.”
Charles Soza’s triumph at the Fedhealth Platinum Trail Run exemplifies the dedication and skill that the Pretoria athletic community possesses. With his remarkable feat, he continues to inspire aspiring athletes and serves as a testament to the exhilarating nature of trail running.
Source: Sports News
