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Alumnus tackles Africa’s oldest race in support of future doctors

Dr Sizwe Zungu is set to run the 161km Washie 100 Miler, aiming to raise R100 000 for financially challenged UKZN medical students.

As the MBChB Class of 2006 marks 20 years since graduating from UKZN, one alumnus is going the extra mile to make a meaningful difference in the lives of future doctors.

UKZN alumnus and specialist anaesthesiologist, Dr Sizwe Zungu, will take on the legendary Washie 100 Miler (a 161km race) in the Eastern Cape this month to raise R100 000 towards registration fees for financially deserving UKZN medical students.

The 26-hour race takes place from July 31 to August 2 in East London.

Also read: Ultra-marathon has a colourful history

For Dr Zungu, the race is about much more than endurance. “The Washie 100 Miler is the ultimate endurance test. Along the route, a strong community of volunteers makes enormous sacrifices to support runners. Their dedication fuels the determination needed to reach the finish line,” he said.

Dr Zungu says he is inspired by the people who believed in his potential when he needed it most.

“I carry with me the memory of those who helped me, as well as the friends, teachers, mentors and colleagues who have shaped my journey. This campaign is an opportunity to honour their generosity by helping another student realise their dream of becoming a doctor.”

Also read: Dream ultra-marathon debut for Challenor

Dr Zungu is encouraging UKZN alumni, staff members, healthcare professionals, medical organisations, and corporate partners to support the campaign by contributing towards the fundraising target.

Beyond medicine and sport, he is passionate about arts, music and culture, interests that continue to enrich his personal and professional life.

Those wishing to contribute to the campaign can make donations through the UKZN Foundation.
Visit https://foundation.ukzn.ac.za/ for more information.

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Wendy Sithole

Wendy Sithole is currently a community media journalist, attached to Berea Mail (Durban). She first joined Caxton Newspapers in 2004. After a newsroom hiatus she rejoined Caxton in 2024. She is responsible for reporting through writing and photography, for both print copy and digital platforms. She studied Journalism and Social Sciences. Apart from reporting, Wendy possesses vast knowledge in the spheres Communication, of Public Relations and Events publicity.

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