Brigitte O’Connor, a runner from the Boksburg Athletic Club (BAC), is preparing to take on the ultimate challenge, the Comrades Marathon.
The 2025 edition of this legendary ultra-marathon is set to take place on June 8, following the “down run” route from Pietermaritzburg to Durban.
For O’Connor, this will be her first attempt at the gruelling 89 km race and she’s determined to make it a memorable one.
“The Comrades Marathon is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and prestigious ultra-distance races in the world.
“It requires months of preparation, discipline and mental toughness—qualities that I believe I have been cultivating since my running journey during the Covid-19 pandemic.”
O’Connor said what started as a way to stay fit during lockdown has blossomed into a passion that has transformed her life.
“I started running during Covid just for fitness. Then, in 2024, my niece came to visit, and we decided to do the Totalsports Human Race together.
From there, I was hooked. I started running shorter distances, but I knew I wanted to push myself further.”
O’Connor competed in the 15km race at the Springs Striders Race on January 19.
She finished second in her veteran over-40s category with a time of 1:15:18, placing 11th overall among all female participants.
This race served as a significant test of her endurance and mental resilience as she prepares for the upcoming ultimate human race.
Also Read: Seme and McLeod on top at packed Johnson Crane marathon
Reflecting on her race experience, O’Connor described it as both challenging and rewarding.
“The first half of the race was really good as it was mostly downhill, so I could pick up some speed.
“But then came the turn, and you know what they say: what goes down must come up. The second half was intense with a few slower kilometers as I tackled the inclines. But by around 12 kilometers, my legs kicked in again, and I finished strong.”
Despite the tough route, O’Connor expressed satisfaction with her performance.
“I’m happy with my pace and how I managed the race overall. It was a good test of my fitness as I start building up toward Comrades.”
Joining BAC
O’Connor credits much of her progress to joining BAC last March and working under the guidance of coach David Gamede.
The club has provided her with invaluable support, training programmes tailored to her goals and a sense of community that has fueled her passion for running even further.
“Watching everyone at BAC train for Comrades last year was so inspiring. I told myself there was no way I was going to miss out this year.
Being part of BAC has been amazing—they’ve given me so much encouragement and guidance.
“Gamede’s coaching has been instrumental in helping transitioning from shorter races to longer distances.
“Under his mentorship, I have not only improved my physical fitness but also developed the mental toughness required for ultra-marathons like Comrades.”
In addition to preparing for Comrades, O’Connor is also considering participating in another race: the Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town. Known as “the world’s most beautiful marathon,” this 56km ultra-marathon offers runners breathtaking views along its challenging course.
For O’Connor, it would serve as an excellent stepping stone toward her ultimate goal.
“I’m definitely interested in doing Two Oceans. It’s such an incredible race and would be great preparation for Comrades.”
Also Read: Johnson Crane Marathon champ commends race’s organisers
