Stoltz podiums at BNAC Marathon
Still recovering from a foot injury that put her out of competition for a year, the Boksburg resident was part of the women's top three that sent the crowd along the finishing straight into a frenzy as they came home in single file to all finish under 41 minutes.
'This year, I plan to build consistency – in training and performance. I am also focusing on recovery and staying injury-free,' said Stoltz.
Also Read: De Bruin achieves career high with third place at Johnson Crane Marathon
She crossed the line in 40:58, 55 seconds behind winner Simonay Weitsz, who cut the tape in 40:03 and was 43 seconds behind runner-up Benoni Harriers' Bronwyn Nel, who clocked 40:15 for the silver.
While the sub-41:00 was outside the three athletes' lifetime bests in the distance, Stoltz and Weitsz are still on the comeback trail following long-term injuries, while Nel has just completed one of her busiest track and field seasons, where she competed in the 800m, 1 500m and 3 000m.
Coming into the race, Stoltz planned to start conservatively and then put foot to pedal in the second half. It is a strategy that worked as she still had enough in the tank on the back end of the race to challenge for a top three position.
She said planning things out, focusing on her priorities and sticking to what she can control worked out for her on the day.
'I stayed patient early on to conserve energy and then pushed hard on the last stretch. Also, training in the right set-up and trusting my training made a difference,' she said.
While victory is always on the back of her mind, it is about progress and not just podiums. Going into her next challenge, the Colgate Race on May 4 at Boksburg Stadium, the Hoërskool Dr EG Jansen alumnus wants to enjoy the experience more and not just focus on the outcome.
'Next time, I will focus more on my mental game, staying calmer under pressure and not letting slight setbacks throw me off.
'I learnt not to go out too hard too early. Pacing is everything, and trusting steady efforts adds up.'
Also Read: BNAC's Botha dominates category at CGA league
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