Duduza – The Mamepe Striders’ athletic twins have proved that two are better than one when they face and conquer sporting challenges.
Twins Kedibone and Kedi Mohwang (19) and Palesa and Pabalelo Ramatladi (23) recently qualified to participate in the South African Championships.
They also became the top four runners in the 2km race of the Cross Country League hosted by Central Gauteng Athletics at the start of October.
Kedi and Kedibone started athletics at primary school in 2014.
“We also played netball but stuck to athletics in high school.”
The pair is grateful to the teachers who identified their potential early. Palesa and Pabalelo have always done well in athletics in school but were introduced to club athletics in 2019.
“I always loved to compete but didn’t know where to find teams. It has not been an easy journey. But now my dream is to represent SA in the Olympics,” said Palesa.
Kedi said she prefers running 800m to 1500m.
“I used to prefer 2 000m in cross-country, but I know I can do well in 4 000m and 5 000m,” said Kedibone.
Kedi and Kedibone Mohwang believe their relationship helps them to stay focused during races.
Palesa said she enjoys 800m races, but when she puts in more effort, she sees that she could do well in 5 000m.
“I don’t see myself in track and field. I enjoy cross-country.”
They all agreed that the highlight of their careers was the first time they qualified for the SAs. The emerging stars train six days a week as they prepare to make their dreams come true.
“It gets better with time. And the more effort you put in, the better your results will be,” explained Pabalelo.
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Kedi added that she wants to work on strengthening herself mentally.
“When you run long distances, your head has to be in the right place. Sometimes, I feel I am weak,” she said.
Kedibone said she wants to use the rest of the year to recover from an injury.
“Athletics has also helped me be more disciplined in every area of my life. And you concentrate better,” she added.
Palesa explained that she believes athletics helped her avoid destructive behaviour.
Palesa and Pabalelo Ramatladi believe they can make a life for themselves with the opportunities presented in the sport.
“Athletics help me to cope with life’s challenges. Our mother died when we were young, and some days, I have felt that with her gone, the only thing that keeps me sane is running,” she added.
They added that running with their sisters is the greatest advantage.
“No matter what happens, you have someone there to support you. Even during a race, she encourages me not to stop until we reach the finish line,” said Kedibone.
Palesa shared those sentiments.
“And if my sister wins, I feel like I have won. I don’t mind getting second place after her,” she added.
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