21 Jan Boxer AC re-signs elite runners and welcomes promising talent
Boxer Athletics Club (AC) is excited to announce the re-signing of several of its top athletes and the addition of promising new talent for 2025, setting the stage for an extraordinary year of competition and achievement.
Among the returning athletes are household names in South African athletics, including Elroy Gelant, Glenrose Xaba, Cacisile Sosibo, Precious Mashele, Kabelo Mulaudzi, Chris Mhlanga, and Lebo and Lebogang Phalula.
The club is also thrilled to welcome new stars like Andries Sesedi, Karabo More, and Karabo Motsoeneng, adding fresh energy to the team.
“We are incredibly proud that all our existing Boxer AC athletes have chosen to re-sign with the club for 2025,” says Rhyn Swanepoel, National Manager of Boxer AC.
“It speaks volumes about the commitment and success of our program that such renowned athletes continue to place their trust in us.”
Athlete Commitment and Development
For South African long-distance star Elroy Gelant, re-signing with Boxer AC is a key decision in his career. He acknowledges the significant role the club has played in his growth as a professional athlete
Elroy Gelant by Tobias Ginsberg
“Re-signing reflects my commitment to a team that has been instrumental in my development,” says Gelant.
“Boxer AC has given me the resources and support I need to reach my potential. From a professional manager like Mr. Rhyn Swanepoel, who is deeply invested in our success, to the camaraderie of my teammates, Boxer AC provides a nurturing environment where I can thrive.”
Gelant’s plans for 2025 include competing in top-tier events like the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES and the South African Road Championships, particularly the SA 21km Championships, where he aims to defend his national title.
He is also looking forward to the World Athletics Road Running Championships in San Diego later in the year. Beyond competition, Gelant is passionate about giving back to the community through outreach programs that inspire young athletes to pursue their dreams.
Glenrose Xaba, who had an exceptional 2024 season, continues to be a standout member of the team. Her impressive achievements last year included setting a national record in her debut at the Cape Town Marathon, winning the SPAR Grand Prix Title, and claiming first-place finishes at major events such as the Boxer Super Run 5K in Tshwane and the Absa RUN YOUR CITY 10Ks in Durban and Joburg.
Glenrose Xaba by Tobias Ginsberg
“Re-signing with Boxer AC is incredibly motivating,” says Xaba. “I know I’m part of a special team, and that keeps me focused on my goals. Boxer AC has supported me through both triumphs and challenges, and I’m excited to continue pushing myself to new heights in 2025.”
A Growing Talent Pool
Boxer AC currently boasts a membership of 400–500 athletes and has set an ambitious goal of expanding to 1,000 athletes by the end of 2025. The club has already started to strengthen its roster with exciting new additions like Andries Sesedi, Karabo More, and Karabo Motsoeneng.
Sesedi, a South African 10km champion, has been a part of the Boxer AC family for two years and is now officially joining the team. His commitment to the club marks a new chapter in his career. “I’m excited about what’s ahead,” says Sesedi.
“Boxer AC has the right environment for athletes to flourish, and I’m eager to be part of that success.”
Karabo More, who joined Boxer AC in August 2024, made an immediate impact by winning the Boxer Super Run 5K in Durban and securing second place in Tshwane. Meanwhile, Karabo Motsoeneng impressed by finishing in the top 10 at the Spar Women’s Challenge 10km in Johannesburg.
These new athletes are poised to make significant contributions to the club’s growing success.
“We are thrilled to have these talented athletes on board,” says Swanepoel.
“Their performances so far have shown they are ready to compete at the highest level. We look forward to seeing how they will continue to develop within the Boxer AC framework.”
Boxer AC’s Core Philosophy
Boxer AC’s success is built on its strong core values, which include professionalism, support, and community. Swanepoel emphasizes the club’s commitment to handling the small but crucial details that make a difference for athletes.
From seamless travel arrangements to comfortable accommodation, the club ensures its athletes are well taken care of, allowing them to focus on their training and performance.
“We also provide unwavering support to our athletes during challenging times, whether it’s recovering from injuries or regaining form,” says Swanepoel.
“This creates a deep sense of loyalty, with many athletes staying with Boxer AC for several years. For example, athletes like Tanith Maxwell, Elroy Gelant, and the Phalula twins have been with us for over a decade, which speaks to the strong bond we’ve built.”
A Year of Achievement Ahead
The club has big plans for 2025, with a packed calendar of prestigious events. Boxer AC will have a strong presence at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES across multiple cities, including Gqeberha, Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, and Tshwane.
The Boxer Super Run 5K will also be a key focus in Durban and Tshwane, alongside the Spar Women’s Challenge and the Totalsports Women’s Race in major cities. Additionally, the club will participate in the Hollywood 10K, as well as national championships in cross country, road running, and track and field events.
Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores, expresses her enthusiasm for the year ahead.
“It’s incredibly exciting to see Boxer AC’s athletes consistently perform at the highest level. We are especially proud to see them shine at our own events, like the Boxer Super Run, and we look forward to more remarkable performances in 2025.”
Looking to the Future
Karabo More
Boxer AC’s ambition for 2025 is clear: to continue as South Africa’s leading athletics club, excelling across a range of events from cross country to marathons.
With an expanding roster of elite athletes and new talent, the club is poised for another year of impressive achievements both on and off the track.
As Swanepoel concludes, “Our primary goal is to remain at the forefront of athletics in South Africa, ensuring our athletes have every opportunity to succeed. With a team of dedicated professionals and incredible athletes, we are excited for what lies ahead.”
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