Samantha Coetzer believes her return to the national championship podium after months on the sidelines with injury is a comeback she will never forget.

The Bardene distance-running standout claimed bronze in the women’s half-marathon at the ASA Half-Marathon, 5km and Mile Championships in Gqeberha on June 27, earning her second successive national bronze medal after overcoming a fibula stress fracture that threatened to end her season.

The Central Gauteng athlete produced a personal best of 1:17:01 to finish behind champion and provincial teammate Cacisile Sosibo (1:12:37) and Gauteng North’s Karabo Mailula (1:15:15).

“This specific medal is definitely one of the most special ones that I’ve received. I’m honestly still in shock. Just a few months ago, I was sidelined with a fibula stress fracture and there were times when I wasn’t even sure if I’d be able to race this year again,” said Coetzer.

“To come back and stand on the national championship podium makes all the sacrifices and hard work worthwhile. It means even more because I wasn’t initially selected for the provincial team, so to eventually get the opportunity and bring home a medal is incredibly rewarding.”

Competing in a quality field, with the championship incorporated into the Nelson Mandela Bay Half-Marathon, was always going to be a stern test, but one the Boxer AC runner welcomed.

“The race was competitive from the start, with a very strong field of ladies. I focused on staying patient, running my own race and not getting caught up too early. As the race progressed, it became a real battle for the podium, especially for third place, and I kept reminding myself to stay composed.

“Over the final kilometres I knew I had to dig deep, especially after everything I’ve been through this year. Crossing the finish line in third place was an unbelievable feeling.”

Also Read: Resilient Coetzer wins CGA half-marathon champs

The bronze medal was made even sweeter by a lifetime best of 1:17:01, eclipsing the 1:21:22 she set when winning the Central Gauteng half-marathon championships in April.

“To run a 1:17 PB after missing so much training through injury exceeded my expectations. There will definitely always be room for improvement, which is exciting because of what is happening next. My biggest takeaway is that consistency, patience and trusting the training and recovery process really do pay off.”

Looking back on her lengthy spell on the sidelines, Coetzer admitted it tested her both mentally and physically.

“It wasn’t easy. Being injured is mentally and physically challenging, especially when you’re used to training and racing. There were plenty of moments where I questioned whether I’d get back to where I wanted to be.

“Representing my province at a national championship again was an honour, and wearing those colours made the experience even more meaningful. To come away with a bronze medal after everything I’ve overcome makes it a comeback I’ll never forget.”

Coetzer now shifts her focus to the second half of the cross-country season.

Also Read: Khunonyane and Coetzer clinch CGA half marathon titles