Tsakane runners get spirited send-off ahead of Comrades Marathon

Local runners were cheered on by the community during a lively send-off ahead of their Comrades Marathon journey.

May 4, 2026

Buhle Matsoele 2 minutes read

Smiles all around at the send-off event. Photo: Buhle Matsoele

Tsakani – The atmosphere was abuzz with excitement as locals from the Tsakane Athletics Club received a send-off from the community ahead of this year’s Comrades Marathon in Durban on June 15.

The event was organised by EKFM in partnership with Bopha Foundation and the local club. It also included fun walks ranging from 5km to 23km, with a large number of community members of all ages participating.

The Comrades runners tackled a 60km training race. The finish line was at La Vogá, where participants enjoyed aerobics.

Fernando Covane secured the first position in the 60km run. He reflected on his performance.

“The trail was not easy to tackle. It’s steep and requires consistency, good pace and mental fitness,” he said.

The 60km winner, Fernando Covane says he is ready for the Comrades Marathon. Photo: Buhle Matsoele

This year’s Comrades will mark his seventh participation.

“Long distance doesn’t require one to be too fast-paced. I enjoyed today’s preparation,” Covane said.

One of the participants was the MMC for operations and maintenance, Nomadlozi Nkosi.

“We are here to wish them well. They must go and represent our city well and bring back those medals,” she said.

She also encouraged the community to stay active.

Participants get active during aerobics. Photo: Buhle Matsoele

“We need to live a life that is healthy. Even if you’re in the house, you can wake up and just do some exercise or a 5km walk,” she said.

Zulfa Nkosi from Bopha Foundation shared similar sentiments about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

“I’m over the moon to see the elderly who are also here to celebrate sports,” she said.

To the Comrade participants, she said, “Keep rising, stay focused. We are here to cheer you on and are so proud of you.”

EKFM sport presenter and marketing assistant manager, Chris Kope, said the station is excited to have embarked on the different races. He also spoke about celebrating 14 years.

“To celebrate this milestone with the community is truly special to us as a station. I wouldn’t have been here celebrating this particular milestone without our stakeholders.

“We are grateful for our listeners’ support, their dedication and interaction at the station. Above all, the presenters who make sure that they keep the fires burning at the station,” he said.

The following members will participate in the Comrades Marathon: