Hollywood Athletics Club boost their Sub-elite field for 2025
The Hollywood Athletics Club is on an upward trajectory, already planning for the 2025 running season. The club recently introduced a new sub-elite division, which is designed for runners who have the potential to achieve elite times and make an impact in major races. This new division was launched on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, with the signing of Lindelani Mjwara, a standout performer on the road from Prodigal Khumalo’s stable, renowned for nurturing talent in Durban.
Joining Mjwara in the sub-elite division is Lekhotla Pulinyana, another talent from Khumalo’s camp. Pulinyana showcased his potential at the Prince Mangosuthu Ultra Marathon, finishing with a time of 03:01:00 against a field of some of the country’s top ultra-marathon runners. He will compete in marathons and ultra-marathons nationwide, aiming for top 10 finishes and a positive representation for the Purple Team.
This progress reflects the vision of the Hollywood Athletics Club President Morgan Shandu, who has frequently expressed his ambition to grow the club and attract top runners. His vision has become a reality as the club continues to sign elite runners and expand its roster. “I am pleased with the progress we’ve made,” said Shandu. “From elite runners to social members, we have grown our national membership to over 2,000. With the addition of the sub-elite division, we aim to elevate our runners and provide opportunities to compete with the best in the country.”
The third addition to the sub-elite team is Mfundo Chagwe, a current member of the club who has demonstrated great promise and dedication. Chagwe joins the sub-elite division following an impressive season, and with his brother Thobani already an elite runner for the club. Many are eager to see the brothers compete on the national stage.
Lala Cele, affectionately known as the “Mother of the Club,” will manage the sub-elite team. She expressed her excitement about the new recruits: “We are a large club with many talented runners, and we want to give everyone a fair chance to represent the brand. We believe in these athletes and expect nothing but greatness from them.”
These are indeed exciting times for the Hollywood Athletics Club, as noted by Chairman Gregg Glossop. The Purple Team is set to bring considerable excitement to the 2025 running season.