Mnisi outkicked pre-race favourite Chris Mahlangu to the line, clocking a blistering 29 minutes on the dot in wet conditions in the City of Roses.

Khonkhobe Olalenna rounded off the podium in third place with a time of 29:07.

In the women’s race, favourite Tayla Kavanagh lived up to expectations, taking the title in 33:05.

Kavanagh told OFM Sport that it was tough going out on the road.

“The race went really well. When I woke up this morning it was pouring with rain, so I was really hoping it would die down a bit, but I actually enjoyed the wet - it made for a cooler day,” said Kavanagh.

“Yesterday was absolutely baking, so I was really happy to have things a bit cooler today.

“I felt really strong out there. The route was quite challenging. They say Bloem is flat, but it definitely wasn’t so flat. The first bit was a little undulating and more downhill, but the second part of the route was a lot tougher. I think the course suited me and my strengths, and I tried to break away on the hills where I knew I was strong.

“Overall, I’m really happy to take the win. It was a good day, the weather was nice to race in, and I’m just really happy.”

Karabo Mailula claimed silver in 34:20, while Elizabeth Hutamo clinched bronze in 34:59.

The National 10km Championships formed part of the Northridge Mall Marathon.

Meanwhile, in the Junior Men’s race, Keamogetswe Letsoalo of Central Gauteng took top honours in 31:22, which was also good enough for 24th overall. Teboho Mokoena of Vaal Triangle secured the silver medal in 31:38, while Koketso Gaborome of Gauteng North claimed bronze in 31:42.

In the Junior Women’s race, Alrie Verster of North West dominated proceedings to win in 37:02, with her provincial teammate Katelynn Steenkamp earning the silver medal in 37:20. Minki Lotter of Vaal Triangle crossed the line in 38:16 to complete the podium.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek