Incumbent Sicelo Pongoma of Stutterheim Athletics Club has been re-elected as Border Athletics president for a second four-year term running from 2026 to 2030. Pongoma defeated former deputy Keith Blanket and Chillie Runners' Bhekisisa Mthembu in a competitive three-way presidential contest. His re-election was confirmed on October 12, 2026, at a meeting in Buffalo City, the largest athletics region in South Africa.
The meeting, which was attended by representatives from across the province, including Komani, was described as peaceful and lively. Pongoma's re-election was not a surprise, given his experience and leadership in the athletics fraternity. He congratulated the incoming board and expressed his positivity about what can be achieved in the next four years. Pongoma's vision for the future of athletics in the region is expected to drive growth and development.
Fezeka Nkomonye, of Chillie Runners, was elected deputy president, helping establish equal gender balance across the provincial board. Nkomonye's election is seen as a significant milestone, marking a commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in leadership within the athletics fraternity. Pongoma emphasized the importance of this development, highlighting the organization's dedication to promoting women's participation in athletics.
Phaphama Malusi retained leadership of the vital Road Running Commission, while Zukile Mbelu was elected unopposed as Cross Country Commission chair. Malusi won a contest against Ayanda Mxakatho and Keith Blanket, securing his position on the BA board. Mbelu, of Stutterheim AC, takes on a tough assignment, but is determined to succeed in his new role.
Khanyiso Tshika was confirmed as Track and Field Commission chairman following notable efforts to revitalise elite competition across the region. Tshika, of Haven Hills Athletics, has done significant work to boost options for elite athletes of all ages, and his re-appointment is expected to continue this momentum. His work, alongside Eliot Maine, has been instrumental in turning around the sport.
The balance of the board is made up of Noluthando Makeleni, of Overtakers, in the important finance portfolio, Vuyo Stoto, who vacated cross country to take on the Athletes Commission role, and Nosipho Ngethu, of Komani Runners, at the helm of women's running. The new board is expected to drive growth and development in athletics across the province, with a focus on promoting women's participation and elite competition.
The re-election of Pongoma and the appointment of the new board are expected to have a positive impact on athletics in the region. With a focus on promoting women's participation, elite competition, and development, the future of athletics in the region looks promising. Young athletes are expected to benefit from well-organised athletics across the province, with a renewed focus on growth and development.
Key points
- Sicelo Pongoma re-elected as Border Athletics president for a second four-year term
- Fezeka Nkomonye elected deputy president, promoting gender balance on the board
- New board appointments aim to drive growth and development in athletics across the province
