'I want to be one of the best athletes in the country' - Ndlovu joins Xcel Running Club
Following a breakthrough 2024 season during which he became a regular feature in some of South Africa's top 10km races, Siyabonga Ndlovu is moving on to a new club. Ndlovu has penned down a 1-year contract with Xcel Running Club ending his successful stint with Black Diamond Athletics Club. Last year Ndlovu became one of the fastest guys in the country over 10km distance and managed to dip under 29 minutes barrier twice. In April, he produced a remarkable performance to dismantle a strong field on his way to clocking 28:47 to emerge victorious at the Durban International Marathon 10km event.
Then in September, he improved on that personal best with the scintillating lifetime best 28:28 to claim a sixth spot against the quality field of athletes at Hollywoodbets Durban 10km race. The 27-year-old Ndlovu who hails from Osizweni in Newcastle says joining Xcel is a good feeling as the club invests in rising stars.
"I'm very much happy to join Xcel. It's a club that takes development seriously and they have assisted so many upcoming runners. I believe it is a good move for me as I aim to grow even further in my career," said an elated Ndlovu. "Making the decision to move here was easy because the club made its intentions clear during the negotiations. We started the talks earlier this month and they came with an offer which is good for both of us. Leaving Black Diamond was not easy as they took care of me last year. I'm not the type of athlete who likes to change the clubs. I'm grateful for the support they gave me. It means a lot to me," he told #TheTopRunner.
As he looks to break into the upper echelons of 10km running, Ndlovu says 2025 will be about becoming more competitive in the big races like the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES, while planning his half marathon debut.
"I want to beat my personal best. It is possible in races like the Absa RYC where a quality field of athletes is there. This is where I target to do well in order to be among the best athletes in the country. Plus I'm hoping to do at least one or two half marathon races this year. I believe it's time to test the distance," said the man who took fourth position at the 2024 Athletics South Africa 10km Championships.
Meanwhile Xcel co-founder Mandla Mngomezulu says the addition of Ndlovu will give the club depth in short distances, adding that the club might strengthen the squad with further signings. "We welcome Siyabonga Ndlovu to the team. With Ayanda Ngcobo and Sbusiso Kubheka graduating to the Marathons and Ultra Marathon, we are bit thin when comes to 10km competitions. Ndlovu, Lungelo Khumalo and Mluleki Mbatha will assist us in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. We are a development Club it is vital for us to remain competitive in short distances as well. We may add one or two athletes soon, should resources permit."
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