The cream of Fort Hare’s running crop will enjoy home-ground advantage when the university hosts the Border Cross Country Championships for the first time this weekend.
The marquee event on Saturday, July 27, features races for men and women across various age groups – from as young as seven years to senior.
Fort Hare coach Zukisa Wanga said the university had been honoured by Border Athletics’ decision to award it the 2024 edition.
While UFH has previously hosted League events, it has never staged the provincials.
The championships would bring prestige, exposure and opportunities for the University of Fort Hare, he said.
“It enhances its reputation, tests its infrastructure and fosters community engagement.”
Wanga found immense satisfaction in the prospect of having youngsters from different parts of the region take part as UFH would help inspire the next generation of athletes.
Race distances range from 1km for the little ones to 10km for seniors. The course at the Alice campus consists of 1km and 2km loops around the sports complex.

Mbali Tube, who will captain Fort Hare at the Border Cross Country Championships next week, has been in great form. Photo: Full Stop Communications
Fort Hare has a proud tradition of producing top cross country runners.
Earlier this year, Aphelele Faneko was named best senior male cross country athlete at the Border Athletics Awards.
Liyema Qabavane and Mbali Tube, meanwhile, were recognised for representing the region at both the ASA 10km road and cross country championships.
Tube, who according to Wanga was showing great form despite a lack of competition during the exams, will captain the women’s team at the Border showcase.
“I have no doubt that she will have a great time, and Siyabulela Mnase is in good shape for the men’s team,” he said.
“Looking at their training, l can tell that they are ready for it.”
In the League races at Fort Hare last year, Tube and Mnase took line honours in the U23 men’s and women’s categories.
Wanga has been putting his charges, consisting of 10 student-athletes and four from UFH’s athletics development programme, through their paces in recent weeks.
Their regimen has been a mix of long runs to build stamina, interval training for speed and hill workouts for strength.
“Strength training twice a week help prevent injuries, while tempo runs help sustain a fast pace. We’ve also focused on mental preparation and race strategies.”
He said being psychologically ready was crucial, especially with the added pressure of a home event.
“We’re focusing on building confidence, handling race-day nerves and visualising success. Teaching them to stay calm and focused helps them perform.”
Wanga emphasised that the championships were open to everyone and encouraged runners of all ages and skill levels – and especially students from Fort Hare – to give it a go.
It was a great opportunity to show off their talent, improve fitness and be part of an exciting community gathering, he added.