Onalenna Khonkhobe Biography: Age, Nationality, Wikipedia, Career, Marathon, Medals, Awards, Family
Onalenna Khonkhobe Biography
Onalenna Khonkhobe is an accomplished long-distance runner from South Africa. He recently made headlines by winning the Two Oceans 56km ultra-marathon in Cape Town on April 13, 2024, with a time of 3:09:30.
This victory was particularly significant for Khonkhobe as he had previously been on track for a win at the same event two years prior, only to fall to sixth place due to a slip. His recent win at the Dis-Chem Half-marathon in January 2024 also showcased his exceptional talent and prepared him for the Two Oceans Marathon, which he regards as his favorite ultra-marathon.
Khonkhobe’s athletic profile includes impressive personal bests such as a 1:03:13 half marathon in Gqeberha (formerly known as Port Elizabeth) on June 4, 2022, and a 3000 meters time of 8:56.63 at McArthur Stadium in Potchefstroom on March 9, 2021.
Onalenna Khonkhobe Age
Onalenna Khonkhobe is 28 years old as of 2024.
Onalenna Khonkhobe Hometown
Onalenna Khonkhobe’s hometown is Taung, a small town in the North West Province of South Africa.
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Onalenna Khonkhobe Career
Let’s take a look at Onalenna Khonkhobe’s career journey:
Early Life and Talent Discovery
Onalenna Khonkhobe, a young and promising athlete from Klerksdorp, South Africa, has captured the attention of sports enthusiasts with his remarkable performances. His relentless pace on the track is reminiscent of a rabbit fleeing from a lion, showcasing exceptional endurance and determination.
Khonkhobe’s journey began when he was discovered by coach Pio Zacharia Mpolokeng, a former Dublin Marathon winner. Recognizing Khonkhobe’s potential, Coach Pio brought him into the Nedbank Running Club, where the young runner started to emerge as a top contender.
Record-Breaking Runs
Khonkhobe’s achievements include securing victories in races like the Dischem Half Marathon and the Klerksdorp Marathon. Notably, he won the Klerksdorp Marathon in February, setting a new record time of 2 hours and 22 minutes, nearly 10 minutes ahead of the runner-up.
Two Oceans Marathon Triumph
In April 2024, Khonkhobe defied expectations by claiming his first-ever victory in the Two Oceans 56km ultra-marathon in Cape Town. Battling windy conditions, he crossed the finish line in 3 hours, 9 minutes, and 30 seconds, outpacing his teammate Lloyd Bosman. His remarkable achievement earned him the R250,000 prize.
Comrades Marathon and Bush Break
Khonkhobe’s journey continued with the Comrades Marathon, a grueling 90km race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Although he decided not to participate in the 2022 Comrades Marathon, he remains a key figure in South African long-distance running. His “bush break” during the race became a talking point, as he gave up first place to Tete Dijana.
Onalenna Khonkhobe Titles and Achievements
Onalenna Khonkhobe has achieved several notable awards, titles, and medals throughout his career as a long-distance runner. Here’s a list of his significant achievements:
- Two Oceans 56km ultra-marathon – Winner in 2024 with a time of 3:09:30.
- Dis-Chem Half-marathon – Winner in January 2024.
- Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon – Achieved a personal best of 1:03:13 in Gqeberha in June 2022.
- ACNW Open Track & Field Meeting – Recorded a 3000 meters time of 8:56.63 at McArthur Stadium in Potchefstroom in March 2021.
- Klerksdorp Marathon – Set a new record with a time of 2:22:19.
Onalenna Khonkhobe Net Worth
Onalenna Khonkhobe’s net worth is not publicly disclosed.