'I am proud of my achievements throughout the year' - Melikhaya Frans on fruitful 2025

Renowned South African long-distance runner, maintains that his accomplishments this season one of his most successful years to date. Frans delivered outstanding performances, securing two international marathon victories to cement his position as one of the country's leading marathoners. In May, he achieved a respectable 2:13:20 to emerge victorious in the Riga Marathon in Latvia. He then completed a double by winning the Philadelphia Marathon last month in an impressive 2:13:58 on 23 May. He describes these achievements as the crowning glory of his career.

"I'm very pleased with how my year turned out. I began the year on a strong footing, achieving success in local races in Gqeberha. My coach and I had initially planned to compete in the Two Oceans Marathon, but a minor injury forced us to alter our plans. Given my good training fitness, we sought an alternative marathon, and I was fortunate enough to receive an invitation to participate in Riga, an opportunity I had previously missed in 2019 due to visa issues," said Frans who is coached by Mike Mbambani.

Frans celebrates his second international 42,2km victory of the 2025 season in the US city of Philadelphia. Photo Credit: Supplied.

"I emerged victorious in the race, and the Cape Town Marathon was my next target, but unfortunately, it was canceled. Subsequently, I received three invitations and chose to participate in Philadelphia, where I ended the year on a high note with another victory. Overall, I am very proud of my achievements throughout the year. I couldn’t have predicted that it I would have such wonderful year."

For the success he achieved in 2025, Frans says a pivotal moment of motivation occurred in 2024. Competing in last year’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, the 35-year-old surged to the front and split the bunch to ultimately finish in fifth place overall with a time of 2:12:18. As the first South African to cross the finish line, Frans notes that his eye-catching performance and lifted his confidence.

Frans with coach Mike Mbambani. Photo Credit: Mthandeni Nene.

"My performance at the Cape Town Marathon, where I utilized a fartlek approach to take the lead, boosted my morale. Despite not winning the race, it generated widespread attention. Notably, when I submitted my application for Riga, my Cape Town performance was well-received. This achievement was highly significant, motivating me to push harder, knowing that many people still believe in me," he told #TheTopRunner.

After a satisfying season, the Ikamva Athletic Club top runner will take some time off before deciding on what 2026 has in store for him. 

"It is time for me to rest and consult with my coach to determine the best way forward. Lastly, I am also grateful for the encouragement of my training partners, who have been instrumental in my growth and progress. The key objective is to replicate the success achieved this year, which is attainable through hard work and dedication."