Kwa-Thema’s Sbongiseni Skosana celebrates his eighth Comrades Marathon finish
SAPS member Sbongiseni Skosana says discipline, preparation and community support helped him conquer the gruelling 87km race once again.
Kwa-Thema – Sbongiseni Skosana (40) from Kwa-Thema recently participated in the Comrades Marathon. Skosana was among the 93 SAPS Gauteng members who participated.
He explained that he started playing sport at early age, while still in primary school. He described training as an addiction and lifestyle.
Skosana started running the Comrades Marathon in 2016 while he was still running for the Kwa-Thema Striders.
He has participated in races such as the Johnson Crane Marathon, and Springs Striders Marathon.
“One day I told myself I want to try the Comrades Marathon just once.
“I have participated in the Comrades Marathon for eight years. This year I finished in 11:44,” he explained.
“My uncles used to participate in the Comrades Marathon in the early 80s. Seeing their photos participating in the Comrades Marathon made me want to take part of this big
race.”
He described the marathon like a World Cup.
“We meet people from different countries who take part. The marathon needs you to prepare yourself mentally and physically because it is a long journey of 87km in one day.
“Anyone can take part in the marathon but you must be prepared to run the whole day, and be able to train for it. You also need people to support you,” he said.
He explained that training is very crucial, saying there are people who have trained for six months before participating,
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Skosana said giving up crosses the runner’s mind but one gathers strength from the KZN community that is cheering.
“The Comrades teaches us to be strong and overcome fear. I would like to encourage young people to participate in sport, whether soccer, rugby or running, as one never knows what the future holds.
“Crossing the finish line has another feeling which I cannot explain,” he added.
Although Skosana did not reach his target this year, he still managed to complete the race.
He urged those who want to take part in the sport to start small, with 5km to 10km for three days a week, just for the body to adjust.
