"I had a plan" - Ramohlale eyes ultra marathon debut after Mall of The North Marathon win

After taking last running a marathon during the 2024 season, Emmanuel Ramohlale announced his 42km comeback with a dominant win at yesterday’s (Sunday 19 April) Mall of The North Marathon in Polokwane. The Mzansi AC Top Runner clocked 2:36:44 to break the finishing tape more than a minute ahead of Ananius Masila (2:38:29), with Mosimanegape Bonnetsoe took the last podium position (2:38:27) and also finished as the first veteran.

Ramohlale ascribed his victory to his race plan, explaining that he lined up at the start with the intention of winning the demanding 42km race, which was based on a carefully thought out pre-race strategy.

“The race was very tough,” he told #TheTopRunner. “But I had a plan. When I saw the route during the week I began formulating my race plan. My training told me that I was in good shape, so I came into the race with confidence and targeted victory. I made sure that I didn’t stay too far behind the lead bunch. Then when the hills started I took the lead and built a sizeable gap. Although I’m not completely satisfied with the time, the main thing is that I achieved my goal of winning the race.”

Ramohlale is excited about his ultra marathon debut after winning The Mall of The North Marathon. Photo Credit: Supplied.

Returning to 42km racing after more than a year away was the cherry on top for Ramohlale who will now attempt his first ultra marathon. Ramohlale revealed that his success at the Mall of the North Marathon was an important benchmark ahead of his ultra marathon debut at the Polokwane City 50km Ultra Marathon on the 2nd of May. 

“Remember that I didn’t run a marathon for the entire 2025 season. I focussed on shorter distances to improve my speed so this was my comeback. This race showed me that I’m fit which means I can aim for a good performance at the Polokwane City Ultra Marathon. That 50km race will be my ultra marathon debut. I’m excited and looking forward to it.”

The women’s race was won by Kenya’s Rosaline Isaiah whose modest finishing time of 3:13:57 was still more than 29 minutes faster than her closest competitor highlighting the lack of depth in the women’s 42km field.