The Benoni Northerns Athletic Club (BNAC) runners may wear the colours, dominate the headlines and enjoy the applause of supporters lining the streets, but Kerry Webb is the thread that holds the fabric together.

Months of planning and late nights culminated in a spirited send-off breakfast on June 7, where the club’s 180 Comrades Marathon participants gathered ahead of the 99th edition of the Ultimate Human Race.

A Comrades finisher herself, Webb understands the demands of the iconic race and has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every logistical detail is taken care of. Her dedication has helped BNAC become the ninth-largest club represented in this year’s race.

Describing her role, Webb laughed that managing Comrades runners can sometimes feel like ‘herding cats’.

“I don’t know if you’ve ever tried to herd cats. It’s almost impossible,” she said.

“It involves a lot of repetition, a lot of announcements, a lot of emails and a lot of WhatsApps. Most importantly, it’s about being there. I’m totally immersed in the club and at club runs, talking to members, trying to motivate them and giving them advice.

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“I’ve only done four Comrades, but I have some learnings that I can share. I think just being there for everyone is what makes all the difference.”

Webb’s commitment extends beyond Comrades preparations. She also helps organise the club’s major races while balancing family life and a demanding career.

“Technically, I’ve got two jobs,” she said.

“This one is what I’d call a soul-enriching job. I think it is my purpose in life. Managing the club members and arranging races comes from a place of love.

“Even if it means being up at one o’clock in the morning thinking about a race and going to sleep thinking about a race, I find the energy because it comes from a complete place of love.”

Having joined Northerns in 2015, Webb credits the club with helping her through some of life’s most challenging moments.

“When I joined Northerns, I joined a family. This club has saved me hundreds of times. When things were rough with family or work, this club was there for me.

“That’s what keeps me going because I want everyone else to have that same experience.”

The greatest reward for Webb comes from watching club members achieve their goals.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your clubmates cross the finish line at Comrades,” she said.

“In the weeks leading up to a race, I literally eat, sleep and drink it. Then on race day, when everything comes together like an orchestra, it’s an incredible sense of accomplishment.
“It’s one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever done.”

Her message to the club’s runners, especially the 33 novices, is to soak it all in.

“Standing on that start line is such a privilege. There is nothing quite like your first Comrades. Finishing Comrades is one of the biggest things you’ll ever do in your life. It’s a memory that will stay in your heart forever.”

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