Modderbee correctional service officials lauded for Comrades Marathon
Fifteen officials finished the marathon race in time; a ceremony was held to celebrate them.
Twenty-three officials from the Modderbee Management Area, who represented the Gauteng region of the Department of Correctional Services in the Comrades Marathon, were honoured last Wednesday.
Fifteen officials finished the marathon race in time; and a ceremony was held at the Modderbee Mess Hall to celebrate their achievement in completing the gruelling race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban.
The head of the correctional centre, Masuku Salome, praised the officials for their dedication and discipline.
“You are a good example of officials who symbolise what it means to be a disciplined correctional officer. I believe that to prepare for this prestigious marathon, one needs time management skills, perseverance and resilience,” she said.
The acting area commissioner of Modderbee Management Area, Hendrik Smith, echoed her sentiments.
“Your accomplishments are a testament to your exceptional skills, talent and courage. You have consistently demonstrated a high level of maturity and discipline to overcome the ultimate human race,” he said.
Smith added that the participants’ performance would inspire their colleagues to strive for excellence. The journey was not without challenges. Nkia Mathabathe, Cuthbert Mabe, Andrew Chidi and Setumo Rahlaga sustained injuries that prevented them from completing the race.
Of the 25 initially set to participate, two did not start despite being on the list. Ultimately, 15 officials crossed the finish line within the official cut-off time.
Mbusiseni Yaka was the first elite Department of Correctional Services runner to finish, clocking in at six hours and 28 minutes. This marked his third consecutive Comrades Marathon.
Yaka shared his training strategy, explaining that he runs home from the Modderbee Correctional Centre to his residence in Welgedacht every Wednesday and Friday, totalling 54km per week.
“I have run major races across the country to qualify for the Comrades,” he said.
The results:
- Leshireletje Leshilo – 11:40:04
- Shadrack Masuku – 11:34:39
- Ben Molokela – 11:06:44
- Phillips Wellington – 10:41:28
- Noel Rikhotso – 10:38:40
- Eddie Thomo – 10:30:39
- Victor Mathole – 10:30:39
- Matlele Malapane – 10:08:38
- Khehla Molefe – 09:54:56
- Lebogang Molefe – 09:49:34
- Andrias Sello – 09:36:51
- Nathi Ntshingila – 08:33:27
- Lesiba Mmotlana – 07:57:06
- Kgatitle Maimela – 07:39:56
- Mbusiseni Yaka – 06:28:24
