Excitement and anticipation filled the air on June 6 as Kwa-Tthema Striders hosted a Comrades Marathon breakfast send-off for its athletes ahead of the iconic ultramarathon.

As part of the send-off, the club members participated in a 5km and 15km run.

The event brought together runners, club officials and supporters ahead of the race, providing an opportunity to wish athletes well while also reminding them about the challenges they may face on race day.

Speaking to the African Reporter, the club’s chairperson, Tshepo Khoza, said the gathering was aimed at motivating runners and promoting safety.

He said that the purpose was to reassure runners and wish them well for the marathon. He added that as a club, they wanted to sensitise them about the dangers on the road.

Khoza stressed the importance of listening to one’s body during the race and avoiding unnecessary risks.

“If your body is not responding, there is still next year, and we can still go for Comrades again,” he added.

To prepare runners for the gruelling race, the club organised regular training programmes throughout the year, including monthly time trials and club runs designed to build endurance.

He also highlighted the importance of community support, saying running should be viewed as more than just preparing for Comrades.

Khoza believes the Comrades Marathon continues to inspire younger athletes, although he encourages runners to build their fitness gradually before taking on the ultramarathon.

“I normally say it is better to start Comrades when you’re above 30 years because it is a very long race. Until then, athletes should build their capacity and fitness levels,” he explained.

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Looking ahead to race day, the chairperson said the club’s main objective is to maintain its strong finishing record.

Khoza hopes that the club will retain their 100% finishers record in this year’s race.

“That is the goal I have. However, it doesn’t mean runners must push themselves beyond their limits. If it does not happen, it is fine, but it remains our wish,” he said.

One of the runners that will be representing the club, Buti Namo (44), will be taking on his fifth Comrades.

He shared that he is excited for this year’s race, as he has been training since January. He said that this year will be different for him compared to last year’s, as he was sick during the race.

“Before the race, the doctor told me not to compete, but because of my love for running, I disobeyed the order and ran the full race.

“However, the aftermath was severe as the doctor booked me off work and any physical activities for three weeks,” explained Nama.

The runner said that the support from the club has been helpful as they help with the training and advising them on the dos and don’ts at the ultra-race.

“It means a lot for me to represent the club, as I was born and raised in Kwa-Thema, so I am honoured to be one of the runners that will be in the marathon representing the area and the city,” he said.

Nama shared that his aim this year is to finish under seven hours and 30 minutes, where he will return with a silver medal.

Khoza’s final message to runners was to trust their preparation and run their own race.

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