First-time Comrades runner Banele Molaba aims for coveted medal
Inspired by experienced runners and guided by seasoned coaches, Banele Molaba hopes to fulfil a lifelong dream when he lines up for the Comrades Marathon.
Duduza – Banele Molaba (35) will be running the Comrades Marathon in Durban on June 14 for the first time and will represent Duduza Athletics Club.
Molaba told the African Reporter that for him, it represents the fulfilment of a dream years in the making, and he hopes to cross the finish line and earn the coveted Comrades medal.
He shared that he used to watch the marathon on TV and thought it was impossible to do. He said he would often ask himself how runners managed to complete such a challenging race.
Molaba explained that his perspective changed when he joined Sunday Crew Health and Fitness Organisation, a local running group made up of experienced Comrades runners.
The organisation is led by head coach Sibusiso ‘Bean Bus’ Mthembu, an official Comrades Marathon pacesetter, and assisted by experienced Comrades runner and coach Phephile Dlamini.
Meeting the group gave him the confidence to believe that running Comrades was within reach.
“Being surrounded by experienced Comrades runners made me stop doubting myself. I told myself it was time to go and fetch my medal and make my dream come true.”
His inspiration grew after seeing both male and female runners complete the race. He shared that when he realised that even female runners were achieving this goal, he understood that no human is limited.
“If they can do it, what is stopping me from doing it as well?” expressed Molaba.
His athletics journey began long before he joined a running club. While working shifts, he often jogged to and from work to stay fit and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
As his passion for running grew, he started researching local clubs and eventually joined the Duduza Athletics Club after receiving assistance from a member of the Sunday Crew.
“Duduza Athletics Club was still open for membership when I decided to join. Other clubs had already closed registrations, so I was fortunate to find a place there.”
Training for his first Comrades Marathon has involved weekly and weekend sessions under the guidance of his coaches.
He explained that they have been following a special Comrades training programme. The coaches have provided them with everything they need, and he is confident that he will come back with a medal.
Balancing work and training has been one of his biggest challenges. Missing training sessions because of shift work often meant having to make up the kilometres elsewhere.
“Consistency is very important when preparing for Comrades. When I miss training because of work, I have to find time to make it up so I can stay on track.”
The demanding preparation has required sacrifices, including waking up early to complete training sessions before work.
Despite the challenges, the experience has taught him valuable lessons.
“I have learned that if you believe in yourself and trust the process, you can achieve your fitness goals and dreams. Comrades’ preparation has taught me that anything is possible as long as you do not limit yourself.”
He credits much of his progress to the support received from fellow runners and his coaches.
“Coaches Phephile Dlamini and Sibusiso Mthembu helped me realise that I should never limit myself. Their experience and guidance have played a huge role in helping me reach this milestone.”
As race day approaches, he admits to feeling a mixture of excitement, nerves and uncertainty. As a novice, he said he is ready and prepared, but does not know exactly what to expect.
“My goal is simple. I want to cross the finish line and earn my first Comrades medal.”
Completing the race would be a life-changing moment.
The 35-year-old shared that it would mean everything to him. It would be a dream come true and proof that with belief, faith and hard work, anything is possible.
He hopes his journey will inspire others in Duduza and surrounding communities to pursue their own goals.
“Many people believe the Comrades Marathon is impossible and only a few can run it. I want people to know that if I can do it, they can do it too. Never doubt yourself or your abilities.”
Asked to describe his Comrades journey in three words, his answer was never give up.
“I never gave up on my dream of running Comrades and earning that medal. Now I am about to make that dream a reality.”
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